• Every January, the world unites to emphasize the three pillars of elimination: HPV vaccination, regular screening, and early treatment.
  • The National Cervical Cancer Coalition (NCCC) calls this month a time to mobilize communities, encourage participation, and push toward WHO’s elimination goals.

On November 17, 2025, the world marked the first World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day. The World Health Organization (WHO) and its partners announced that 86 million girls have already received the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, a shield against cervical cancer.

In 2025 alone, countries such as Bhutan, Brazil, China, Indonesia, Nigeria, Tajikistan, Pakistan, and Rwanda expanded HPV vaccination and screening programs. Each step brings the world closer to a future where cervical cancer no longer claims lives.

WHO reminds that cervical cancer is one of the most preventable and curable cancers — but only if it is acted upon early. The question is: how can this possibility be turned into reality?

The Four Pillars of Elimination

1. Screening

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Women should undergo cervical cancer screening every 5–10 years starting at age 30. Pap smears and HPV tests detect abnormal cells before they turn cancerous. Screening must be accessible to all women, followed by immediate treatment where needed.

2. Early Treatment

When screening reveals abnormal cells, procedures such as cryotherapy can remove them before they progress to cancer. Early treatment saves lives and prevents suffering.

3. HPV Vaccination

The HPV vaccine protects against the strains most likely to cause cervical cancer. Vaccination can begin as early as age 9, offering girls lifelong protection.

4. Public Awareness and Education

Despite progress, millions of women and girls are not screened regularly. Education campaigns are vital to increase uptake of both vaccination and screening, especially in low- and middle-income countries where cervical cancer rates remain highest.

Every January, the world unites to emphasize the three pillars of elimination: HPV vaccination, regular screening, and early treatment. The National Cervical Cancer Coalition (NCCC) calls this month a time to mobilize communities, encourage participation, and push toward WHO’s elimination goals.

This January, remember: your health is your power. Cervical cancer is preventable, and you already have the tools to protect yourself — vaccination, screening, and informed choices.

As you step into the new year, make healthy living part of your resolutions. Every commitment you make today strengthens your wellbeing tomorrow. Happy New Year and here’s to a healthier future.

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