“This campaign is called 90-70-90 which is related to what really matters to us women; the measures for us are that, 90-70-90. It is 90% of girls vaccinated against HPV between the ages of 10 to 15; 70% of women who undergo a high-yield test at age 35 and again at age 45; and 90% of women with cervical disease who receive treatment,” detailed the Minister of Health and Sports, María Renée Castro.
The fight against cervical cancer has been seen as an imperative need. According to data provided by the Ministry of Health, “cervical cancer (CaCu) is the leading cause of disease and death in women of childbearing age in Bolivia. Between 2016 and 2023, 13,415 new cases were detected, with 35.5% concentrated in Santa Cruz; 30.8% in La Paz; and 16% in Cochabamba.”
HPV
This is why this comprehensive national campaign has been launched. On the one hand, it seeks to encourage women to go for their Pap smears and at the same time have access to free HPV tests. This, in turn, allows the doctor to make a timely follow-up in case the virus is identified and early treatment can be given.
“The main cause of cervical cancer is persistent infection by high-risk types of the Human Papilloma Virus, which is transmitted mainly through sexual contact,” recalled the State portfolio, through an institutional note.
The campaign also includes intensified vaccination against HPV. The doses are available in the health system for all children from the age of 10. In this way, the aim is to prevent the virus and, therefore, reduce the risks of cervical cancer.
“For Cervical Cancer Prevention Month, vaccination will be extended to girls and boys aged 10 to 14 years until June 30, 2025,” reported Salud.
The campaign is being carried out in all nine departments. Both HPV tests and vaccinations are free of charge at health centers, the ministry reminded.