Exploring the role of the oncology nurse in cervical cancer screening programs during times of transition

• Published in: Canadian oncology nursing journal Vol. 35; no. 1; pp. 223 - 232
• Main Authors: Lamanna, Alessia, Gosselin, Sophie, Buick, Catriona
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English; French
• Published: Canada Canadian Association of Nurses in Oncology 2025
• Subjects: Cellular biology; Cervical cancer; COVID-19 vaccines; Human papillomavirus; Immunization; Medical screening; Oncology; Pandemics; Supplement
• ISSN: 1181-912X; 2368-8076

Cervical cancer remains the fourth most prevalent cancer among women worldwide, with approximately 660,000 new diagnoses and 350,000 deaths recorded in 2022. Countries with well-established preventative measures have experienced significant reductions in cervical cancer rates through vaccination and regular screening. In Canada, recent efforts have emphasized the adoption of primary HPV-DNA testing as a primary screening tool in cervical cancer screening programs, replacing the cytology (pap) testing. The COVID-19 pandemic had disrupted these initiatives, posing challenges to screening and vaccination programs. Despite these setbacks, ongoing recovery strategies are underway to mitigate the pandemic's adverse effects. Several challenges regarding this shift also have been identified by countries that have transitioned their respective screening programs to primary HPV-DNA testing. Understanding these unique challenges will be essential for developing strategies to address barriers, such as implementing new technologies, training healthcare providers, and ensuring equitable access to screening. This review seeks to (1) examine the evolution of HPV testing and the transition from cervical cytology (Pap smear) to HPV testing as the primary screening method; (2) assess the long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on screening, prevention, and HPV vaccination within the Canadian healthcare system; and (3) explore the pivotal role of oncology nurses in advancing education, advocacy, and leadership in cancer prevention.