Cervical cancer in resource-limited settings: preventable but not yet prevented

Abstract

Women in developing countries suffer a high burden of cervical cancer, which remains a leading cause of cancer deaths among women. Recent developments, however, suggest that there is hope for cervical cancer control even in resource-limited settings. Owing to the scarcity of healthcare resources, it is imperative that an appropriate cost-effective screening strategy be adopted to obtain optimal results. This article reviews the performance characteristics, merits and limitations of the available primary and secondary screening modalities for cervical cancer with a particular focus on the role of alternative strategies in developing countries. An algorithm for an optimal screening strategy in resource-limited settings is conceptualized. Future research issues aimed at refining the existing tools and developing low-cost screening technologies are also addressed.