Cervical cancer remains a significant public health challenge, with approximately 604,000 new cases and 280,000 deaths recorded globally in 2024, according to the latest data from the World Health Organization (WHO). Despite these figures, the disease is considered largely preventable through targeted HPV vaccination and routine screening.
The WHO emphasizes the global “90-70-90” strategy, which aims to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030. This framework sets three critical benchmarks: ensuring 90% of girls are fully vaccinated against HPV by age 15, 70% of women are screened by ages 35 and 45, and 90% of those diagnosed with pre-cancer or invasive cancer receive appropriate, timely treatment.
Persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) is the primary cause of nearly all cervical cancer cases. Vaccination for girls aged 9–14 is identified as the most effective primary prevention method. For adult women, high-performance screening tests every 5–10 years starting at age 30 are essential for detecting precancerous lesions. The WHO notes that women living with HIV require more frequent screening—every 3–5 years starting at age 25—due to their six-fold increased risk of developing the disease.
The organization warns that significant inequities persist, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where access to vaccination and diagnostic services remains limited. Early detection remains the most reliable pathway to a cure; symptoms such as unusual bleeding or persistent pelvic pain should prompt immediate clinical evaluation. By scaling up these evidence-based interventions, the WHO estimates that 74 million new cases could be averted by 2120.