Eliminating Cervical Cancer in New Zealand: Funding and Plan Needed
New Zealand’s Commitment to Cervical Cancer Elimination
In a global effort to eradicate cervical cancer, New Zealand is falling behind due to inadequate management of this preventable disease. Annually, around 175 New Zealanders receive a cervical cancer diagnosis, with 55 tragically losing their lives to this illness. The leading cause of cervical cancer, the Human papillomavirus (HPV), is responsible for 95 percent of cases, as well as some throat and anal cancers. Fortunately, New Zealand possesses an effective vaccine against HPV, and screening can detect precancerous changes on the cervix before cancer develops. The potential for eliminating cervical cancer within our lifetime is within reach, but it necessitates a comprehensive strategy and financial investment.
Global Goals for Cervical Cancer Elimination
The World Health Organization has outlined three crucial targets for global cervical cancer elimination:
1. 90% of girls fully vaccinated with the HPV vaccine by age 15
2. 70% of women screened using high-performance tests by ages 35 and 45
3. 90% of women with precancerous conditions treated and 90% of women with invasive cancer managed
However, achieving these targets in New Zealand requires a dedicated commitment from the government to develop and fund an elimination strategy. Despite some progress, women continue to lose their lives due to cervical cancer.
The Rise in Self-Testing for HPV
In September 2023, New Zealand introduced HPV self-testing as part of the national screening program. This self-test offers significantly greater protection against invasive cervical cancers compared to traditional smear tests, with a 60-70% increased efficacy. Following a negative result, women do not require another test for five years, reducing the annual number of cervical cancer cases by 15%. With 80% of women opting for self-testing, including those who were previously unscreened or under-screened, the potential impact on cervical cancer prevention is substantial.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
Despite progress in increasing screening coverage to 70.8%, New Zealand’s HPV vaccination rates remain low at 45-60%, falling short of the 90% target. In contrast, Australia is on track to become the first country to achieve cervical cancer elimination due to significant government investment in their national strategy. To reach the goal of elimination, New Zealand must prioritize free cervical screenings, a well-funded elimination strategy, and increased HPV vaccination rates.
As we strive towards a future without cervical cancer, inclusive strategies and equitable funding are essential to ensure that all women benefit from these advancements. With the right resources and commitment, New Zealand can make cervical cancer elimination a reality for everyone.