Post-pandemic global coverage of human papillomavirus screening
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.23854/07199562.2025611.mancillaKeywords:
Virus del Papiloma Humano (VPH), cáncer cervicouterino, tamizaje, COVID-19Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the leading cause of cervical cancer, one of the main causes of female mortality worldwide. Early detection through screening programs, including HPV testing and cytology, is crucial to prevent progression to invasive cancer and reduce mortality. However, the coverage of these programs presents marked geographic disparities, reflecting inequalities in access and resources. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, screening coverage was already insufficient, especially in low- and middle-income countries, where rates were significantly lower than in high-income countries. The pandemic exacerbated this problem, generating a significant reduction in screening coverage during pandemic. The impact after the health emergency has been analyzed in this review. The decline in coverage has not recovered to pre-pandemic levels, representing a relevant threat to public health, especially among the most vulnerable populations. The data showed a clear correlation between a country's income level and its ability to maintain adequate cervical cancer screening coverage. While high-income countries maintain relatively high coverage, low- and middle-income countries continue to face significant access barriers, including limitations in infrastructure, economic resources, access to screening exams and access to trained personnel. Identifying and addressing these inequalities is crucial to designing and implementing effective prevention and control strategies that reduce cervical cancer morbidity and mortality globally. Significant investment is required in health infrastructure, health education programs, and public policies that promote equity in access to quality health services.
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