Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers worldwide, yet it remains the fourth most common cancer in women globally, with approximately 600,000 new cases each year. In Pakistan, the disease is even more prevalent, ranking as the third most common cancer among women. A significant number of Pakistani women present with advanced-stage disease, often due to lack of awareness, cultural barriers, or limited access to screening and early diagnosis.
Preventing cervical cancer requires a comprehensive approach that combines vaccination, screening, and timely treatment. Human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes over 95% of cervical cancers, is a primary target for prevention strategies. Vaccination is recommended for young girls to build immunity before they reach reproductive age, while screening remains essential because vaccines protect against only some of the more than 200 HPV strains.
At the national symposium “From Awareness to Action: HPV & Cervical Cancer Elimination 2030,” organized by Roche Diagnostics Pakistan in partnership with the Society of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists of Pakistan (SOGP) in Karachi, experts discussed strategies to accelerate elimination efforts.
Dr. Zahra Hasan, Professor and Consultant Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Aga Khan University, emphasized the impact of innovations in screening:
“Self-sampling is a game-changer for cervical cancer prevention. It overcomes stigma, ensures accurate HPV testing, and allows women to take control of their health, even in Pakistan.”
Self-sampling allows women to collect their own samples privately, increasing accessibility while maintaining accuracy. Roche’s cobas® HPV test supports high-performance detection of high-risk HPV types, enabling early intervention and broader coverage, even in smaller laboratories. With WHO prequalification and global access partnerships, Roche is working to ensure no woman, no matter where she lives, is left behind.
Dr. Uzma Chishti, Interim Chief Medical Officer & Associate Dean Clinical Affairs, Aga Khan University Hospital, highlighted the critical importance of screening alongside vaccination:
“Cervical cancer is largely preventable, yet many women in Pakistan present with advanced disease. Vaccination is critical, but regular screening is the most important pillar and remains essential. I urge government stakeholders and policymakers to ensure HPV testing and cytology are made accessible for all women to save lives.”
Other experts emphasized the need for culturally sensitive outreach. Dr. Fyezah Jehan, Chair & Professor in the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Aga Khan University, noted:
“In Pakistan, while mothers may be willing to vaccinate their daughters, fathers are often the primary decision-makers for children’s health. Engaging men is essential for real impact.”
Dr. Zahra Hasan also highlighted the timing of interventions:
“HPV can take many years to develop, which is why vaccination is given to young girls. During this window period, screening and testing are essential to identify individuals who have been exposed or infected but have not yet developed disease. Early diagnosis is key to prevention of cervical cancer.”
Vaccination and screening are complementary pillars in the fight against cervical cancer. Ensuring education, access and innovation can save thousands of lives across Pakistan.
