By Bunmi Yekini
As world leaders convene in Rio de Janeiro for the G20 Summit that begins today, Brazil is making a bold statement in the fight against cervical cancer by illuminating the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue in teal. This event is part of the global observance of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) “Day of Action for Cervical Cancer Elimination,” which aims to raise awareness and mobilize efforts to eliminate cervical cancer worldwide.
The event, marking the fourth anniversary of the WHO’s launch of the Global Strategy to Eliminate Cervical Cancer, brings together governments, partners, and civil society from around the globe. Countries from Chile to China and Ethiopia to Japan are marking the day with campaigns that include HPV vaccination drives, screenings, new health policies, and public awareness initiatives. The aim is to increase access to life-saving services, particularly in low-income and underserved communities where the burden of cervical cancer remains high.
Significant Progress, Yet Unmet Challenges
Since the historic 2020 commitment by 194 countries to eliminate cervical cancer, notable progress has been made. According to WHO, 144 countries have introduced the HPV vaccine, over 60 have incorporated HPV testing in cervical screening programs, and 83 countries now offer surgical care services for cervical cancer as part of their health benefit packages.
“I thank all the health workers who are playing a critical role in this global effort,” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “While we are making progress, we still face huge inequities, with women in low-income countries bearing most of the burden. Only with strong leadership and sustained investment can we achieve our shared goal of equitable access for communities most in need.”
Global Initiatives Highlighted on the Day of Action
Several countries are marking this year’s Day of Action with impactful commitments and actions:
Chile will pilot self-collection with HPV testing, a step towards integrating this option into its health care reform.
China will host academic lectures, health runs, and illuminations across 31 cities to raise awareness.
Ethiopia, with support from Gavi, is launching a nationwide HPV vaccination campaign targeting over 7 million girls.
India will host awareness campaigns and training for healthcare professionals across multiple states.
Japan will illuminate over 70 landmarks as part of its annual Teal Blue Campaign to promote cervical cancer awareness.
Rwanda will announce a bold goal to reach the 90-70-90 targets for cervical cancer elimination by 2027, three years ahead of the global WHO target.
In South Africa, the Department of Health is rolling out provider training across three provinces to improve the detection and treatment of cervical cancer.
New WHO Guidance on HPV Testing
To support ongoing global efforts, WHO is also releasing new guidance on Target Product Profiles (TPPs) for HPV screening tests. The TPPs outline the desired characteristics of new HPV tests, particularly those that can be used in resource-limited settings. These tests should be affordable, high-performing, and capable of self-sampling, empowering women to test in their own homes and improving access in remote areas.
“Low-cost, high-performance HPV tests are critical for eliminating cervical cancer in low- and middle-income countries, where the disease burden is highest,” Dr. Tedros added. “We need to innovate and ensure these tools are accessible to the women who need them the most.”
A Global Movement for Equity
The Day of Action for Cervical Cancer Elimination underscores the need for continued global solidarity. From Nigeria, where the First Ladies Against Cancer are leading advocacy efforts, to Ireland, which has committed to eliminating cervical cancer by 2040, this annual observance highlights the growing momentum and countries’ commitment to achieving a future free from cervical cancer.
As countries mark this important day, the world is reminded of the collective responsibility to ensure that all women, regardless of income or geography, have access to the tools and services needed to prevent and treat cervical cancer.