# Accelerating the elimination of cervical cancer: cross-sectional examination of cancer prevention and control in Latin America and the Caribbean

## TL;DR

This study examines cervical cancer prevention progress in Latin America and the Caribbean, identifying regional disparities and key challenges to achieving elimination goals.

## Contribution

The study provides a cross-sectional analysis of cervical cancer control status across 35 LAC countries, revealing regional disparities and actionable insights.

## Key findings

- Latin America shows marked progress in national plans and elimination strategies, while Caribbean regions face significant barriers.
- HPV vaccination is well-monitored, but screening and treatment surveillance systems remain limited.
- Gaps in histopathology and radiotherapy access are most pronounced in the Caribbean.

## Abstract

Cervical cancer is a public health problem in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). The Cervical Cancer Elimination strategy sets three targets (90% HPV vaccination, 70% screening, 90% treatment) for countries to be in the path towards elimination. This study provides an overview of the current status of cervical cancer control in LAC, highlighting opportunities and challenges for cervical cancer elimination.

We conducted a descriptive analysis of the cervical cancer control status in LAC, using an online questionnaire completed by delegates from health authorities of 35 countries/territories.

We found marked advances in the development of national plans and cervical cancer elimination strategies, particularly in Latin America. Caribbean countries and territories face barriers in program organization and human resource provision. While HPV vaccination is systematically monitored, surveillance systems for screening and treatment are limited, reducing the ability to track program performance and progress. Transition to HPV testing is ongoing, but ensuring adequate funding and management of screen-positive females remain challenging. Gaps in histopathology and treatment —especially radiotherapy— are most pronounced in the Caribbean.

Regional collaboration, resource mobilization, and investment in information systems and workforce capacity are essential to achieve equitable access to cervical cancer prevention and care. This analysis provides a baseline to guide future studies to support LAC countries in achieving the 90-70-90 targets.

Work funded by the 10.13039/501100004892Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.