What is the current status of cervical cancer rates in Canada?

According to the report, cervical cancer rates in Canada have plateaued since 2005, a concerning trend that threatens the country's goal of eliminating the disease by 2040.

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Cervical Cancer Rates Plateau in Canada, Experts Warn of Missed Elimination Goal

Q: What are the main factors contributing to the stagnation of cervical cancer rates in Canada?

Experts cite lower HPV vaccination rates and a decline in the number of people getting screened for cervical cancer as the primary factors behind the plateauing rates.

18 Nov

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Summary

Cervical cancer rates in Canada have plateaued since 2005
430 preventable deaths expected in 2025 due to this cancer
Experts cite lower vaccination rates and screening declines as causes

According to a report published in November 2025, cervical cancer rates in Canada have plateaued since 2005, a concerning development that threatens the country's goal of eliminating the disease by 2040. The Canadian Cancer Society estimates that 430 preventable deaths will occur in 2025 due to this largely preventable cancer.

Experts cite several factors contributing to the stagnation, including lower HPV vaccination rates and a decline in the number of people getting screened for cervical cancer. Advocates are calling for policy changes to boost vaccination coverage and increase access to screening, such as through the adoption of at-home HPV testing.

One cervical cancer survivor, Shannon Pethick, who underwent extensive radiation and chemotherapy at age 32, emphasizes the importance of prevention. "The minor inconvenience...of that pap is just so minuscule compared to what you could be going through if you're not checking that," she said.