HPV Awareness Day: WFPHA Advances Global Efforts to Eradicate Cervical Cancer

The launch of the Global HPV Consortium in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on September 2023, stands as a monumental achievement in the realm of global health. Led by the Sabin Vaccine Institute and with active involvement from the World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA), represented by its Executive Manager, Dr. Marta Lomazzi, this event signifies a key advancement in the battle against cervical cancer.

Aligned with the World Health Organization‘s (WHO) Immunization Agenda 2030 and Cervical Cancer Elimination Initiative, the Consortium serves as a collaborative platform uniting public and private stakeholders worldwide. Its primary mission is to expedite the prevention of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) transmission and ultimately eliminate cervical cancer as a public health threat.

Cervical cancer remains a global health challenge, claiming the lives of approximately 350,000 women annually, with over 600,000 affected each year. This largely preventable disease disproportionately impacts low- and middle-income countries, where access to screening and treatment resources is limited. Without intervention, cervical cancer cases are projected to surge by almost 50% by 2040.

Despite the availability of the HPV vaccine for 17 years, its uptake remains low, exacerbated by the challenges posed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Recognizing the urgent need for action, the Consortium has galvanized diverse stakeholders from various sectors, including vaccination, cancer control, non-communicable diseases, HIV, reproductive and adolescent health, gender equity, and women’s empowerment.

Looking forward, on June 23rd, 2024, the WFPHA’s Immunization Taskforce convened a webinar on “Shaping the Future of Public Health Sustainable Investments.” This event brought together global experts to showcase tangible examples of efficient and effective health investments, including the transformative potential of gene therapy and the analysis of the return on investment for HPV immunization in low and middle-income countries. Insights into Costa Rica’s immunization model and the PAHO revolving fund were also shared.

The WFPHA is committed to supporting the Global HPV Consortium’s endeavors and anticipates collaborative initiatives aimed at preventing HPV transmission and eradicating cervical cancer. Together, we can stride towards a future where cervical cancer ceases to be a threat to public health.