Global Push to Eliminate Cervical Cancer by 2030 Could Save Millions

Cervical cancer remains one of the most widespread cancers affecting women globally. In 2022 alone, over 660,000 new cases were recorded, with around 350,000 deaths. Now, a worldwide push aims to eliminate the disease entirely by 2030—an effort that could save millions of lives in the coming decades. In 2020, 194 countries committed to a global strategy to wipe out cervical cancer within a decade. The plan focuses on three key targets: vaccinating 90% of girls against human papillomavirus (HPV) by age 15, screening 70% of women by age 35, and treating 70% of those diagnosed. HPV, a virus linked to nearly all cervical cancer cases, can be prevented through early immunisation.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends HPV vaccination for all girls aged 9 to 14. Regular cervical screening is also advised, starting at 30—or at 25 for women living with HIV. Despite these measures, unequal access to prevention and treatment persists in many regions, leaving gaps in the fight against the disease. If successful, the elimination effort could prevent 74 million new cases and avoid 62 million deaths by 2120. The stakes are high, as cervical cancer currently ranks as the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide.

The 2030 elimination strategy relies on scaling up vaccination, screening, and treatment access. Achieving these targets would drastically reduce cervical cancer cases and deaths over the next century. However, progress depends on overcoming disparities in healthcare availability across different parts of the world.