Cervical Cancer Elimination Day of Action: For the first time in history, a cancer can be …
On November 17, 2023, the world will mark three years of the global collaboration with survivors, leaders, and advocates towards the elimination of cervical cancer. This provides an opportunity to celebrate the global commitment and review progress on the pathway to elimination, aiming for a threshold of fewer than 4 women per 100 000 women-years. This has catalyzed a social movement and sparked an annual tradition, bringing communities across the world together for a “Day of Action for Cervical Cancer Elimination”.
Cervical cancer is a worldwide health concern. Cervical cancer claims the lives of 300,000 women worldwide annually with 90% of instances and fatalities taking place in low- and middle-income countries. At the regional level, cervical cancer is the 6th most common cancer in women of the Eastern Mediterranean Region. In 2020, an estimated 89 800 women were diagnosed with cervical cancer in the Region and more than 47 500 women died from the disease.
Cervical cancer can be prevented and treated. When diagnosed, cervical cancer is one of the curable forms of cancer, if it is detected early and managed effectively. Cancers diagnosed in late stages can also be managed through appropriate treatment and palliative care.
The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination is one of the most effective and safe ways to prevent cervical cancer and