OTTAWA – Health experts are calling on the Canadian government to implement urgent preventive measures as reports reveal a steady rise in cervical cancer cases across the country. Despite being a highly preventable disease, Canada’s incidence rate is currently more than double that of countries like Australia. While the nation aims to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040, doctors warn that the current trend represents a significant public health crisis.
A primary concern highlighted by experts is the low uptake of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. Although the national goal is to vaccinate 90% of children, the current coverage stands at only 64%. To combat this, medical professionals are advocating for intensified school-based vaccination programs and suggesting that the vaccine be made free for individuals up to age 45. Expanding vaccination to boys is also recommended to prevent other HPV-related cancers.
In addition to vaccination, specialists are pushing for a transition from traditional Pap tests to more accurate HPV-based primary screening in all provinces. Advocacy groups are further calling for the passage of a unified health act to ensure equitable access to screening and treatment for all Canadians, regardless of their location.
