Promoting efforts to eliminate cervical cancer in Vietnam

Experts discuss solutions to promote efforts to eliminate cervical cancer in Vietnam.

The seminar introduced a pilot cervical cancer screening model in Hai Phong, in which women can collect samples themselves or go to local medical facilities to perform HPV DNA testing - a screening method recommended by the World Health Organization.

This model offers flexible options and addresses common barriers to screening access such as concerns about stigma, time constraints, and privacy. It helps increase early detection and expand access, especially in hard-to-reach areas.

As one of the most preventable cancers globally, cervical cancer remains a major public health challenge in Vietnam. Every year, thousands of women are diagnosed with the disease at a late stage, leading to ineffective treatment and premature death. Early detection through effective screening is key to reducing this burden.

As part of a global effort, the World Health Organization has set the 90–70–90 target to promote vaccination, screening and treatment, aiming to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030.

Vietnam has made significant progress: HPV vaccines have been integrated into the national Expanded Program on Immunization and treatment services are increasingly being expanded. However, the biggest limitation remains screening and early detection. Barriers such as stigma, limited access to services and logistical difficulties continue to affect screening rates, especially in rural, remote and isolated areas.

To address this important issue, delegates discussed solutions at the seminar, in which the HPV DNA testing model with a combination of self-sampling and centralized testing at the laboratory showed potential for nationwide expansion to overcome current screening barriers.

View of the seminar.

Professor, PhD, Doctor Nguyen Vu Quoc Huy, Vice President of the Vietnam Obstetrics and Gynecology Association, Rector of the University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, said that HPV DNA testing can be effectively integrated into the primary health care system, thereby helping with early detection, reducing the burden on the frontline and improving the referral system. If replicated nationwide, this model will help expand access for women and strengthen the capacity of the health system in efforts to eliminate cervical cancer.

Dr Heather White, Executive Director of TogetHER for Health, said: Eliminating cervical cancer requires not only clinical tools and guidance, but also long-term policy, multi-sectoral collaboration and investment appropriate to the national context.

Meanwhile, Mr. Chris Humphrey – Executive Director of the EU-ASEAN Business Council shared: Health and economic development always go hand in hand. When governments invest in prevention, especially in areas with high impact such as cervical cancer screening, the benefits are reflected not only in reduced treatment costs but also in a healthier and more productive workforce.

MINH THANH

Source: https://nhandan.vn/thuc-day-cac-no-luc-loai-tru-ung-thu-co-tu-cung-tai-viet-nam-post903894.html