Cervical cancer is preventable and curable.

So, why does it still exist? Because women around the world do not have equal access to three potentially life-saving interventions: Vaccination, Screening, and Treatment. Basic Health International performs ground-breaking global research to help women get the care they need and prevent this devastating disease.

What is cervical cancer?

The cervix is the narrow lower portion of the uterus that opens into the vagina. Human papillomavirus (HPV), the most common sexually transmitted infection, causes cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine can prevent most cervical cancers before they begin and is most beneficial to those who are not yet sexually active. Clinicians can vaccinate children as early as age 9, preventing cervical cancer for a whole generation. As a disease, cervical cancer can take years to develop, is often symptomless, and strikes women during the prime of life, ages 35-44.

Why is cervical cancer important?

Cervical cancer elimination is an achievable public health goal. It is the only cancer that is entirely preventable. And yet, cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in low-resource settings. During 2018 more than 310,000 women died of this disease, the majority of whom lived in countries where there are significant barriers to vaccination, screening, and treatment. We have the tools to end this tragedy and to empower women by prioritizing their access to healthcare. Please help us continue to save lives.

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