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

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.

While the news is disappointing, there are some bright spots in the data. Overall cancer survival rates in Canada have improved, and the incidence of lung and colorectal cancer has decreased in recent years. However, the plateau in cervical cancer rates remains a significant public health concern that requires immediate action to get the country back on track to meet its elimination goals.