The UICC World Cancer Congress recently hosted a digital session titled “Cervical Cancer Elimination: Local and European Experiences for Global Learnings.” This session addressed the urgent need to eliminate cervical cancer, a preventable disease that still claims the lives of women worldwide due to significant disparities in healthcare access and awareness.
Speakers from Project PERCH (European Joint Action project) and EU-TOPIA-EAST (European Horizon 2020 project) presented innovative strategies and tools designed to enhance communication for the sustainable adoption of vaccination and screening across various regions in Europe, particularly in Eastern Europe, where cervical cancer rates are the highest.
Cristiana Fonseca from the Association of European Cancer Leagues opened the session. Paul Bloem from the WHO discussed the 90-70-90 cervical cancer elimination goals and shared valuable lessons for global application. Janne Bigaard, representing the Danish Cancer Society, highlighted the significance of partnerships with stakeholders and volunteers, along with effective communication strategies. Inge de Kok from EU-TOPIA-EAST emphasised the critical evidence required prior to implementing vaccination and screening programs, drawing on key lessons from the project. Raffaella Bucciardini, Project PERCH, addressed the disparities in vaccination and screening uptake and shared insights from the Project PERCH.
The panel was important for Project PERCH as it aligns with its goals of improving HPV vaccination coverage, especially in regions with significant health disparities. Insights on stakeholder engagement and evidence-based practices will enhance the project’s effectiveness, ensuring tailored interventions meet local needs. By addressing inequalities and fostering collaboration, Project PERCH can significantly impact the elimination of cervical cancer.
