Cervical cancer is caused by sexually acquired infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women living in less developed regions with an estimated 445 000 new cases in 2012 – 84% of the new cases worldwide. In 2012, approximately 270 000 women died from cervical cancer; more than 85% of these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries.
In developing countries, limited access to effective screening means that the disease is often not identified until it is further advanced and symptoms develop. In addition, prospects for treatment of such late-stage disease may be poor, resulting in a higher rate of death from cervical cancer in these countries. The high mortality rate from cervical cancer globally (52%) could be reduced by effective screening and treatment programmes.
What is more, people who are living with HIV are at higher risk of HPV infection, and are also more likely to be infected by a broader range of HPV types. In recognition of the need to address some of the leading cause of death among people living with HIV in low- and middle-income countries, the board of Unitaid has passed a resolution to support improved access to health products for people with advanced HIV disease, those co-infected with HIV and hepatitis, as well as, people co-infected with HIV and HPV. This resolution presents an important step forward in ensuring the prevention and control of cervical cancer.
About Unitaid
Unitaid, a hosted partnership of WHO, is an international organization that invests in new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat HIV /AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria more quickly, cheaply and effectively.
Unitaid Board supports integrated approach to fighting leading causes of HIV deaths, Unitaid Statement