How easy to eliminate cervical cancer; examples of developed and developing countries and Turkey

Abstract

Abstract Issue Cervical cancer has the 4th highest incidence rate among women in the world. WHO made a global call for action to eliminate cervical cancer and and set targets to be achieved by 2030. Description of the problem The aim of this study to review the current situation in some countries with different development levels and made some suggestions to attain the targets. Turkey was assessed in detail to develop suggestions for elimination program which could be an example for some other countries. In this descriptive study; The issue were evaluated in Finland, the United Kingdom, Australia, Cuba, China, Uganda and Turkey between February and April 2021 by literature review. Results In 2020, in Finland, United Kingdom and Australia, HPV vaccine is provided in the national programs: cervical cancer screening coverage is between 52-75%; The incidence rates, are between 5.2-9.9%; mortality rates are between 1.1-1.9%. There is no HPV vaccine in the national program in Cuba, China and Uganda, and cervical cancer screening coverage is between 5-67%; the incidence rates are between 10.7-56.2%, and mortality rates are between 5.3-41.4%. Whereas in Turkey; the incidence rate of 4.8% and 2.2% mortality rate; HPV vaccine is not provided in the national program and screening coverage is 27%. The budget that should be allocated for the elimination program in terms of target groups for vaccination and screening total of 4.038.684.000 TL which is around 491.340.824 US$. The health infrastructure in terms of facilites and workforce is not enough in crowded areas. Lessons For Turkey, the concrid recommendations including the current health and education systems were made. Cervical cancer elimination would be possible even in developing counries as the main cause and risk factors are scientificaly known. For the success realistic planning, prioritisation of preventive health measures, advocacy programmes and competent management are the key issues. Key messages The elimination of cervical cancer in Turkey is possible with current potentials. However, existing problems must be overcome and an elimination program must be well planned. Countries that are struggling with cervical cancer and countries that are successful in the elimination, should have partnerships as indicated in the 17th Goal of the SDGs.