Cervical cancer is now acknowledged as the “fastest-rising form of cancer” in Canada, prompting urgent calls for a robust national response. At a press conference held on Wednesday, the Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada (GOC) voiced concerns that the federal government must intensify efforts to combat what they describe as a “silent national health crisis.” This announcement comes in the wake of a national action plan introduced by the Canadian government in July 2025, aimed at eradicating cervical cancer as a public health issue by 2040.
A Growing Concern
Dr. Shannon Salvador, the president of the GOC, expressed deep concern over the current situation, stating, “Canada is currently facing a silent national health crisis.” With an estimated 1,650 new cervical cancer diagnoses expected in 2025—alongside projections of 430 fatalities—Dr. Salvador highlighted the urgency of addressing this preventable disease. “These deaths are avoidable,” she asserted, underscoring the need for immediate change.
Despite advancements in medical technology and treatment, Canada’s reliance on traditional Pap smear testing has not kept pace with the evolving landscape of cervical cancer prevention. Dr. Salvador noted that the nation’s HPV vaccination rates have stagnated at a concerning 64 per cent, significantly below the levels needed to achieve effective cancer elimination.
Shifting Towards Innovative Screening Methods
The GOC is advocating for an immediate and comprehensive transition to HPV DNA testing for cervical cancer screening, alongside the implementation of self-collection kits. These innovations are designed to enhance accessibility for individuals who may face barriers to traditional healthcare services, such as geographical isolation, trauma histories, or cultural marginalisation.
Currently, HPV testing is conducted using swabs to collect cervical or vaginal samples, and self-administered testing is available. These self-collection kits aim to eliminate obstacles associated with accessing healthcare, particularly for those in rural, Indigenous, and underserved communities. “The health gender gap has persisted for far too long,” Dr. Salvador remarked, emphasizing the need for equitable healthcare solutions.
Addressing Systemic Inequities
Dr. Sarah Kean, the provincial lead for cervical cancer in Manitoba, pointed out stark disparities in diagnosis and treatment outcomes among Indigenous women, who are often diagnosed at later stages and face worse prognoses. “This is not due to biology,” she stated, but rather a result of systemic barriers including inadequate access to screening resources, geographic isolation, and the ongoing impacts of colonialism and poverty.
Kean called for a comprehensive approach to HPV screening across Canada, advocating for federal legislation to support universal access. “Robust HPV screening must go beyond mere guideline updates; it requires clear national standards to ensure equitable access across all provinces and territories,” she asserted.
The Financial Burden of Cervical Cancer
The financial implications for Canada’s healthcare system are significant. Dr. Salvador revealed that the cost of treating cervical cancer was projected to reach £132 million in 2024, while screening eligible Canadians over a five-year period would cost an estimated £106 million. These figures highlight the urgent need for preventative measures that could significantly reduce the financial and human toll of this disease.
As awareness grows around cervical cancer, both the Canadian Cancer Society and the World Health Organization are pushing for accelerated action. The CCS reported in November 2025 that, despite previous declines in cervical cancer rates, progress has stagnated. “Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers,” Kean emphasised, reinforcing the importance of vaccination, screening, and treatment access.
Why it Matters
The rising incidences of cervical cancer in Canada signal a critical need for a recalibrated approach to women’s health. By prioritising preventative measures, particularly through improved access to vaccination and screening, Canada can not only save lives but also alleviate the financial burden on its healthcare system. The voices of healthcare advocates underscore the necessity of policy reform to address systemic inequities and ensure that no woman falls victim to a disease that is largely preventable. Inaction is not an option; the health and well-being of future generations depend on the choices made today.
