The HSE urges Leitrim to participate in the efforts to eradicate cervical cancer on International HPV Awareness Day, encouraging everyone to contribute their thoughts and experiences through a new online survey.
According to the HSE, this survey marks the initial step in formulating Ireland’s strategy to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040. The survey, which can be completed in five minutes, seeks input on:
– Personal views and/or experiences with HPV vaccination in Ireland
– Personal views and/or experiences with cervical screening in Ireland
– Experiences with cervical cancer treatment, if applicable
– Suggestions for improving services
– Top three priorities for inclusion in Ireland’s action plan to eliminate cervical cancer.
Dr. Caroline Mason Mohan, Director of Public Health at the HSE National Screening Service and Head of the HSE’s Cervical Cancer Elimination Strategy Group, emphasized the importance of hearing everyone’s perspectives to develop an inclusive and impactful action plan.
“Some demographic groups are disproportionately affected by cervical cancer, experiencing higher rates of illness and mortality compared to the general population. Each year, approximately 250 women receive a cervical cancer diagnosis in Ireland, and tragically, 82 women lose their lives to the disease. However, by achieving our elimination objective, we anticipate a significant reduction in the number of cases.”
Individuals aged 18 and above are encouraged to participate in the survey.
As per the World Health Organization (WHO), elimination is defined as having fewer than 4 cases per 100,000 women. Prevention of HPV infection is possible through HPV vaccination, while HPV cervical screening can detect cell changes caused by HPV and provide treatment before they progress into cancer.
Elimination of cervical cancer can be realized by ensuring universal access to three crucial tools: HPV vaccination, which targets the primary cause of most cervical cancers; HPV cervical screening, and timely treatment for cervical pre-cancer and cancer when necessary.
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