While cervical cancer is preventable, an estimated 14,000 new cases are diagnosed in the United States every year, leading to almost 4,300 deaths from the disease.

In this recording from the 21st International Congress of Cytology (ICC), Prof Mark Stoler shows evidence that the use of HPV DNA tests as the primary form of screening, followed by using p16/Ki-67 dual staining in triage can prove effective in identifying women who are at the highest risk of cervical cancer. This testing method gives actionable results that allows clinicians and health systems to prioritise resources for those who are in need of them.

Since 2020, Thailand has used HPV DNA tests as a way to optimise primary screening programmes for cervical cancer. The country conducted internal studies on the cost-effectiveness of HPV tests within primary screening and found it to be economical. To increase coverage amongst the unscreened or under-screened population, self-sampling was introduced to address cultural and/or religious barriers and increase convenience for those who had routine healthcare services delayed due to Covid-19.

In this recording from AOGIN 2022, Prof Wichai Termrungruanglert of Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok, Thailand, shares how the Thai healthcare system has responded to the changing needs of the screening population. Watch the recording to find out more.

HPV screening programmes are being rolled out across many countries in a bid to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030, a target that has been set out by the World Health Organisation. As more countries gain access to innovative technology and greater experience in cervical cancer screening, some are exploring updating screening algorithms in order to improve the cost effectiveness and efficiency of existing programmes.

In this presentation recording from AOGIN 2022, Prof Tay Sun Kuie of Singapore General Hospital outlines the experience of HPV screening and detection in Singapore. Watch the recording to find out more.

In Hong Kong, cervical cancer ranked as the 8th most common cancer and cause of mortality amongst women in 2019 [1]. Despite a national screening programme implemented in 2004, studies show that close to 40% of women have never been screened before in their lives [2]. With cervical cancer incidence increasing, there is a clear need for action to drive HPV awareness and education, as well as to improve screening rates, especially in underserved communities.

The Karen Leung Foundation (KLF) is the only charity in Hong Kong dedicated to tackling gynaecological cancers, including cervical cancer. Through Project Teal and other initiatives, it is partnering with key stakeholders to increase access to cervical cancer diagnostics in various communities.

To learn more about their efforts toward eradicating this preventable disease, read this interview article with Katharina Reimer, Executive Director of the Foundation.

Cervical cancer is one of the top three cancers diagnosed in Malaysian women. It is also one of the most treatable cancers if detected early, but an acute association with anxiety, fear or pain are common reasons women do not present for screening. This is why so many women in Malaysia are diagnosed with late stage cervical cancer.

In this powerful short film, survivor Chris discusses her battle with cervical cancer. Chris is a Malaysian-Chinese woman with a three year old daughter. She is 34 years old and is currently fighting cervical cancer for the third time. Chris explains how she put off being tested for cervical cancer out of embarrassment and only sought help once she noticed symptoms.

Chris is continuing to fight cervical cancer and she doesn’t want any woman to suffer the way she has. Chris is calling for women worldwide to be screened regularly for cervical cancer, because if caught early, it is one of the most treatable types of cancers.

In Thailand, only 53% of Thai women get regular checkups. Ms. Chutiyaphat Santhong is a survivor of Stage III Cervical Cancer who wants to empower other women to learn more about cervical cancer and start prioritising their own health.

Meet Mrs Patricia Chu, BBS, Chairman, The Hong Kong Anti-Cancer Society, Hong Kong who is a powerful advocate for building awareness and influencing policies that support women’s health.

India has one-fifth of the world’s cervical cancer cases, among whom the majority are only diagnosed in stages III and IV. Dr Kiran Coelho, Head of Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lilavati Hospital in India, believes in having a healthcare system with equity and resources for women.

In the 14th meeting of the Asia-Oceania Research Organisation in Genital Infection and Neoplasia (AOGIN 2022), distinguished speakers from around the world gathered to talk about human papillomavirus (HPV) and the several cancers it can cause, the most notable among them being cervical cancer. Read more on the highlights at the link below: