Eliminating cervical cancer as a global public health problem requires equitable action

Imagine nearly eliminating a cancer that almost 350 000 women die from globally every year.1 The World Health Organization has set the goal of “elimination” of cervical cancer as a public health problem, defined as less than four incident cases per 100 000 women annually.2 To meet this goal, WHO recommends that countries fully vaccinate 90% of girls against human papillomavirus (HPV) by age 15, screen 70% of women for cervical cancer by age 35 and again by 45, and treat 90% of women identified with cervical disease. But health inequities risk delaying elimination goals, especially for countries and people without adequate access to vaccination, screening, and treatment. A strategic focus on tackling social determinants of health will be required to overcome barriers to elimination for countries and people affected by health inequalities.Many high income countries have the public health infrastructure to achieve near elimination of cervical cancer. Australia is…
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