Cervical Cancer Prevention.pdf

Ambassador Samantha Power of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is urged to adopt human papillomavirus (HPV) testing as the primary screening method for cervical cancer worldwide, particularly for women living with HIV. The World Health Organization's (WHO) updated guidelines recommend transitioning from cytology or visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) to HPV testing due to its higher accuracy.

The WHO aims to screen 70% of women for cervical cancer by ages 35 and 45 to accelerate global elimination. USAID, as a key supporter of the global elimination strategy and implementer of the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), is requested to provide a timeline for transitioning all cervical cancer screening programs to HPV testing.

A coalition of 38 organizations, including TogetHER for Health, AVAC, and the American Cancer Society, acknowledges USAID's role in increasing access to cervical cancer screening and preventive treatment, particularly through PEPFAR's Go Further program. They emphasize the importance of committing to HPV testing to demonstrate a clear commitment to quality care for women living with HIV.

The letter is copied to Antony Blinken, Secretary of State, Natasha Billimoria, Deputy Assistant Administrator for Global Health, and Michele Sumilas, Assistant to the Administrator of the Bureau for Policy, Planning, and Learning.