The Ministry of Health and Social Development has launched stakeholder consultations aimed at developing a national roadmap to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health concern in the Virgin Islands.
The initiative aligns with the World Health Organization (WHO) and Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Cervical Cancer Elimination Strategy and brings together representatives from international health organisations, government agencies, private sector partners, civil society groups, and healthcare professionals. The consultations are focused on strengthening prevention, screening, early detection, treatment, and follow-up care throughout the Territory.
Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, said the initiative demonstrates the Government’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of women across the Virgin Islands.
“Cervical cancer is one of those health challenges that demands both urgency and hope,” Minister Wheatley said. “It is a serious public health concern, but it is also one of the few cancers we have the tools to prevent. Through vaccination, screening, early detection, timely treatment, and strong follow-up care, we can improve outcomes for women and families throughout the Virgin Islands.”
Minister Wheatley highlighted the Territory’s progress through its human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programme, including the transition to the WHO-recommended single-dose vaccination schedule, the implementation of a catch-up campaign, and achieving HPV vaccination coverage rates above 90 percent for two consecutive years.
The Minister noted that PAHO has recognised the Virgin Islands’ achievements as a regional success story, demonstrating the Territory’s ability to successfully implement evidence-based public health programmes.
However, while acknowledging the progress made, Minister Wheatley stressed that vaccination alone cannot eliminate cervical cancer.
“We must now strengthen HPV primary screening, diagnosis, treatment, referral systems, public education, and equitable access to timely, high-quality care for women throughout the Territory,” he said.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Social Development, Ms. Tasha Bertie, underscored the importance of collaboration in developing a strategy that reflects the needs and realities of women across the Virgin Islands.
“Today’s consultation is about more than developing a strategy. It is about bringing together the knowledge, experience, and perspectives needed to strengthen disease prevention, improve access to services, and enhance the quality of care provided to the women of the Virgin Islands,” Ms. Bertie said.
The consultation represents a significant milestone in the Virgin Islands’ efforts to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health issue. Building on the success of its HPV vaccination programme, the Territory will continue working alongside PAHO, healthcare providers, and community partners to establish a practical and sustainable roadmap focused on prevention, early detection, treatment, and improved health outcomes for women and girls.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development expressed appreciation to PAHO, healthcare professionals, stakeholders, and community partners for their continued support in advancing cervical cancer elimination efforts throughout the Virgin Islands.