Cervical cancer has emerged as the fastest-growing form of cancer in Canada, a troubling trend described as a “silent national health crisis” by medical experts. At a press conference held in Ottawa by the Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada, the urgent need for enhanced federal action was underscored, particularly in light of the government’s 2025 action plan aimed at eradicating cervical cancer as a public health issue by 2040.
Dr. Shannon Salvador, the society’s president, highlighted the stark reality facing Canadians: in 2025, around 1,650 individuals were expected to be diagnosed with cervical cancer, with 430 fatalities anticipated—deaths that are largely preventable. “Canada is currently grappling with a silent national health crisis,” she stated. “While we celebrate advancements in medical science, there remains an alarming exception.”
The Stalling HPV Vaccination Rates
Dr. Salvador pointed to a concerning stagnation in human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination rates, crucial for preventing cervical cancer. Currently, only 64 per cent of Canadians have completed the HPV vaccination series, a figure that falls significantly short of the levels required for effective elimination. “This statistic is not merely a medical setback; it reflects a failure in our health policies,” she remarked.
For years, Canada has relied heavily on Papanicolaou (Pap) tests for cervical cancer screening, but as Dr. Salvador noted, advancements in science have not been matched by policy improvements. The society is now advocating for an immediate national transition to HPV DNA testing for cervical cancer detection, alongside the introduction of self-collection kits for HPV testing, which could enhance accessibility for many Canadians.
Improving Accessibility Through Self-Testing
The Canadian Cancer Society has outlined the methods for HPV testing, which generally involves swabs taken from either the cervix or vagina. Dr. Salvador emphasised that self-administered testing could significantly reduce barriers for individuals who face challenges such as geographic isolation, lack of healthcare access, or cultural marginalisation.
“These home testing kits can eliminate obstacles related to travel, past trauma, or the absence of a family doctor,” she explained. This approach is particularly vital for rural, Indigenous, and underserved populations who often find themselves overlooked by the healthcare system. Dr. Sarah Kean, a provincial lead for cervical cancer in Manitoba, echoed this sentiment, pointing out that Indigenous women are disproportionately diagnosed with cervical cancer at more advanced stages and face poorer health outcomes due to systemic barriers.
The Financial Burden and Global Context
The treatment costs for cervical cancer are substantial, with estimates suggesting that the Canadian healthcare system will incur expenses of approximately £132 million in 2024. In contrast, screening eligible Canadians over a five-year period is projected to cost £106 million. The financial implications, coupled with the human toll of cervical cancer, highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy that includes universal access to HPV testing and vaccination.
Despite commitments from both Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) to eliminate cervical cancer, progress has faltered. A report released by the Canadian Cancer Society in November 2025 indicated that while cervical cancer remains the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer among women globally, rates in Canada have stagnated, with a mere 0.3 per cent annual decrease in incidence between 2005 and 2021.
Why it Matters
The rising incidence of cervical cancer in Canada is not just a statistic but a call to action for policymakers and healthcare professionals alike. As we face a preventable cancer crisis, the need for robust HPV screening, vaccination, and equitable access to healthcare resources cannot be overstated. By addressing these gaps, we not only honour the lives already affected but also take crucial steps towards a healthier future for all Canadians. The time to act is now, for the health of our communities hangs in the balance.
