Cervical cancer is emerging as the most rapidly increasing cancer in Canada, presenting what experts describe as a silent national health crisis. This alarming revelation was highlighted during a press conference held in Ottawa by the Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada, where medical professionals urged the federal government to take more decisive action. Despite a federal action plan articulated in July 2025, which aims to eradicate cervical cancer as a public health issue by 2040, experts believe the current measures are insufficient to reverse the trend.
The Current Landscape of Cervical Cancer in Canada
Dr. Shannon Salvador, president of the Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada, emphasised the gravity of the situation, stating, “Canada is currently facing a silent national health crisis.” She pointed out that in 2025, an estimated 1,650 Canadians received a diagnosis of cervical cancer, with approximately 430 succumbing to the disease—cases that are largely preventable.
A significant factor contributing to this crisis is the stagnation of HPV vaccination rates, which currently stand at only 64 per cent—well below the threshold required for effective elimination. Dr. Salvador remarked, “This statistic is not just a medical failure; it is a policy failure,” underscoring the urgent need for systemic change.
Recommendations for Change
In light of these concerning statistics, the Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada is advocating for a significant overhaul of current practices. They propose an immediate transition to HPV DNA testing for cervical cancer screening and the introduction of self-collection kits for HPV testing.
These self-collection kits would allow individuals to collect samples from home, thereby removing barriers such as travel difficulties, past trauma, and lack of access to a family doctor. Dr. Salvador noted that these measures are particularly crucial for rural, Indigenous, and underserved communities, which have been historically overlooked by the healthcare system.
Dr. Sarah Kean, who leads cervical cancer initiatives in Manitoba, highlighted the disparities faced by Indigenous women, who are diagnosed at higher rates and often with more advanced stages of the disease. “This is not due to biology,” she stated, attributing the issue to systemic barriers and historical inequities in healthcare access.
The Economic Burden of Cervical Cancer
The economic implications of cervical cancer are substantial. In 2024, the costs associated with treating cervical cancer are projected to reach $132 million, while screening eligible Canadians could amount to $106 million over a five-year span. These figures underscore the financial strain on the healthcare system, emphasising the need for preventive measures.
The Canadian Cancer Society has corroborated these findings, revealing that while cervical cancer was on the decline between 1984 and 2005, progress has since stagnated. The recent report indicated that 1,600 Canadian women were diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2024, with approximately 400 fatalities attributed to the disease.
A Call for Action
Dr. Kean reiterated the necessity for a robust national approach to HPV screening, calling for federal legislation to support universal access to primary HPV testing across all provinces and territories. “Robust HPV screening must mean more than just updating guidelines; it must ensure clear national standards,” she emphasised.
Despite the World Health Organization’s commitment to eliminating cervical cancer, the reality is that all other cancers in Canada are seeing a downward trend, with cervical cancer being the exception. “Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers,” Dr. Kean noted, urging immediate action to reverse these troubling trends.
Why it Matters
Addressing the cervical cancer crisis is not merely a matter of health policy; it is a moral imperative that speaks to the effectiveness of our healthcare system and its capacity to protect the most vulnerable members of society. The current stagnation in HPV vaccination and screening rates poses a significant threat to public health and highlights systemic inequities that must be addressed. If Canada is to honour its commitment to eliminate cervical cancer, a concerted effort that prioritises access, education, and innovative testing methods is essential. The time for action is now, and the consequences of inaction will resonate far beyond the realm of healthcare.
