IARC launches public consultation on cervical cancer screening approaches

Cervical Cancer Screening

On 30 September 2025, IARC opened a global consultation to gather expert and stakeholder input on future cervical cancer screening strategies. Cervical cancer, largely preventable through HPV vaccination and timely testing, still causes significant mortality worldwide, especially in low-resource settings. The consultation explores evolving methodologies such as HPV-based testing, digital innovations, and alternative triage approaches. Health professionals, researchers, and policymakers are invited to share evidence and practical insights that can guide the next generation of recommendations. The initiative underscores the importance of tailoring solutions to diverse health systems, balancing scientific robustness with real-world feasibility.

Equity

Equity is a central theme, as access to effective screening remains uneven across and within countries. Input collected will help IARC refine guidelines that are adaptable, cost-effective, and impactful on a global scale. The consultation also reinforces WHO’s target of accelerating the elimination of cervical cancer as a public health problem. By building consensus and encouraging inclusive dialogue, the process ensures that strategies are not only technically sound but also socially responsive. This initiative highlights collective responsibility in shaping the future of women’s health worldwide.

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