New Zealand has committed to the World Health Organization’s global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer, which aims for 90% of girls to be fully vaccinated against human papillomavirus (HPV) by age 15, 70% of women to undergo high-performance screening by ages 35 and 45, and 90% of women with pre-cancer or invasive cancer to receive appropriate treatment. Despite these commitments, New Zealand lags behind countries like Australia in implementing effective measures to combat this preventable disease. Annually, approximately 175 New Zealanders are diagnosed with cervical cancer, resulting in about 55 deaths. Achieving elimination requires a comprehensive strategy and dedicated funding, which are currently lacking.
In September 2023, New Zealand introduced HPV self-testing as part of its national screening program. This method offers 60–70% greater protection against invasive cervical cancers compared to traditional cytology-based smears and allows women to perform the test themselves, increasing accessibility and comfort. Despite the potential of this advancement, the cervical screening program remains not fully funded, unlike the country’s breast and bowel screening programs. To meet elimination goals, experts advocate for free cervical screening, a well-resourced elimination strategy, and efforts to boost HPV vaccination uptake, ensuring inclusivity and equitable access to these life-saving interventions. Click for More Details
