A study published in The Lancet suggests that cervical cancer could be eliminated in high-income countries by 2048, thanks to HPV vaccination and screening programs.
The researchers say the progress is directly linked to the widespread use of the HPV vaccine and regular medical check-ups. However, they warn that without increased access in low- and middle-income countries, global inequalities will deepen.
HPV is a very common virus that is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. Although most infections are harmless, certain types of the virus are responsible for almost all cases of cervical cancer.
The World Health Organization has set ambitious goals: vaccinating 90% of girls, screening 70% of women, and treating 90% of precancerous and cancerous cases. Achieving these goals could prevent up to 37 million cases over the next century.
In developed countries, progress has been remarkable. In the United Kingdom, mortality from this cancer has fallen by around 80% since the 1950s, largely thanks to national screening and vaccination programs.
However, the disease continues to claim hundreds of lives each year, and experts stress that vaccination does not provide complete protection. For this reason, women are advised to undergo regular screening tests.
Meanwhile, in poorer countries, lack of investment and access to health services is expected to significantly slow progress, making this preventable cancer remain a serious threat to women. /GazetaExpress/
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