Advocates Demand Action as Cervical Cancer Rates Surge in Canada

Cervical cancer is now the fastest-growing cancer type in Canada, yet it remains largely preventable. On February 25, 2026, health advocates gathered in Ottawa to urge the federal government to enhance screening, prevention, and vaccination efforts. This initiative aims to combat the rising incidence of this disease, which poses a significant health crisis.

The gathering included key organizations such as the **Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada** and the **Women’s Health Coalition**, alongside 19 other groups. They convened a press conference to emphasize the urgency of reversing current trends. According to **Dr. Shannon Salvador**, president of the Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada, Canada aims to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040. She noted that while countries like **Australia** and **Sweden** are achieving rates below four cases per 100,000 population—considered elimination—Canada’s current rate exceeds that figure and is on the rise.

Cervical cancer primarily stems from the **human papillomavirus (HPV)**, which is responsible for over 90 percent of cases. It is estimated that 75 percent of individuals will contract at least one HPV infection in their lifetime. A highly effective HPV vaccine has been available for several years and is recommended by the **National Advisory Committee on Immunization** for school-aged children, demonstrating up to 90 percent efficacy in preventing HPV-related cancers.

Research analyzing data from 2014 to 2018 across 14 countries, including Canada, indicated that girls who received the vaccine experienced an 83 percent reduction in the two main cancer-causing types of HPV. Despite this, vaccination rates remain far from the targets needed for cervical cancer elimination. The goal is for 90 percent of children under 18 to be vaccinated by 2025, yet current uptake averages only around 64 percent.

The advisory committee’s recent “white paper” calls for enhanced support and advocacy to ensure comprehensive vaccination through school programs. It also suggests a catch-up program for those under 18 who missed the vaccine during school, along with publicly funded access for individuals up to age 45. The HPV vaccine costs approximately **$215** per dose, and a complete treatment course typically requires two doses.

Access to the HPV vaccine varies across provinces. In **Quebec**, the government covers the vaccine costs for those aged nine to 20, with a temporary program allowing individuals up to 45 years to receive two doses, although this program is set to end soon. Other provinces, such as **British Columbia**, **Alberta**, **Saskatchewan**, and **New Brunswick**, cover the vaccine for people up to age 26, while **Ontario** and **Manitoba** provide coverage for school-aged children and high-risk groups.

While often linked to cervical cancer, HPV also causes cancers affecting men, including penile, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers. The report highlights the rising rates of these diseases, advocating for vaccination of boys as well. It also stresses the need for improved early detection and screening programs. Some provinces, including **Quebec**, **Ontario**, **Prince Edward Island**, and **British Columbia**, now utilize HPV tests as the primary cervical cancer screening method, replacing the less effective Pap test.

**Carmen Wyton**, president of the Women’s Health Coalition of Canada, has called on lawmakers in Ottawa to support a Senate bill aimed at establishing a national framework to enhance women’s health. She stated that passing the bill could “standardize access to HPV testing and self-sampling across provinces and maintain health equity.”

As Canada grapples with this health crisis, the call for action from advocates highlights the crucial need for increased vaccination and screening efforts to reduce cervical cancer rates and ensure the health and well-being of all Canadians.