Strategic framework for the comprehensive control of cancer cervix in South-East Asia Region

Overview

The overall objective of the Strategic framework for the Comprehensive control of cancer cervix in South-East Asia Region is to offer broad guidelines to Member States of the World Health Organization (WHO) South-East Asia Region to develop or strengthen their national cervical cancer control programme through the judicious use of primary prevention (human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination) and secondary prevention (cervical cancer screening and treatment) strategies. The framework is based on a situational analysis of the Member States regarding their preparedness and capacity to introduce new cervical cancer control measures. The document has also taken into account emerging scientific evidence related to new technologies and novel paradigms in cervical cancer screening and to the safety and efficacy of the vaccines. The framework recognizes that although there is an overwhelming need in the Region to introduce measures to reduce cervical cancer deaths, some countries may not be able to initiate prevention programmes in an organized manner due to competing health priorities. Such countries should try to augment cancer treatment and palliative care services, and simultaneously plan for demonstration/pilot projects in cervical cancer vaccination and screening