Introduction

Elimination of cervical cancer by 2030 is a key global objective proposed by WHO. Canadian experts have determined that, to achieve this goal, the Montreal Global HPV prevention objectives need to be met in the targeted population;

· 90% of girls fully vaccinated with the HPV vaccine by 15 years old;

· 90% of women screened with an HPV test; and

· 90% of women identified with cervical disease receive treatment and care.

Methods

A group of 20 prominent international HPV/cervical cancer experts attended a planning workshop and created a report on Canada’s role in accelerating global elimination of cervical cancer.

National/international recommendations have been made to the Canadian Government that would enable Canadians to become major contributors in efforts to attain the goals set by WHO.

Results

Canadian experts have the scientific expertise and the tools to reach the WHO 2030 objective of decreasing cervical cancer incidence to fewer than 4 per 100,000. The main challenge in the planning of cervical cancer elimination is to secure funding and political support.

In order to reach this ambitious objective, innovative approaches must be developed with community leaders to bring the reality of cervical cancer elimination to all communities but especially to communities that experience higher rates of cervical cancer.

Conclusions

Canada should assume international leadership for cervical cancer elimination. Over 100 recommendations for action have been proposed within this important document. Two powerful tools exist for this drive to cervical cancer elimination by 2030: HPV prophylactic vaccines and cervical cancer screening. To take the greatest advantage of these tools, knowledgeable experts must be involved and efforts expedited to implement at least some of these recommendations. If there are delays, the international cervical cancer elimination objective will not be met, with the possible exception of a few rich countries that are already approaching the goal.