The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) in the UAE has reiterated its commitment to decreasing the incidence of cervical cancer and other diseases linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV) through a proactive national strategy. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts aimed at enhancing public health across the nation.

The national plan aspires to vaccinate 90% of girls against HPV by the age of 15 by the year 2030. It encompasses two main components: widespread vaccination and early cervical cancer screening. The initiative also aims to ensure that advanced treatment options are available for those affected by HPV, meeting the highest international standards.

The UAE is distinguished as the first country in the Eastern Mediterranean region to have incorporated the HPV vaccine into its national immunization program in 2018. Initially, the program targeted schoolgirls aged 13 to 14, but it was expanded in 2023 to include males of the same age group. This expansion represents a significant advancement toward universal HPV protection and the prevention of related diseases for both genders.

MoHAP has emphasized its commitment to raising awareness regarding the significance of vaccination and early detection, thereby enhancing the UAE’s role in the global effort to eliminate cervical cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) has commended the country’s national immunization program, particularly its integration of the HPV vaccine into an advanced healthcare system.

This strategy is also aligned with the UAE’s “Year of Community” initiative, which promotes collective responsibility in health awareness. MoHAP highlighted that fostering early screening and vaccination is vital for developing a healthier society, consistent with the UAE’s broader vision for a high quality of life.

According to official statistics from the National Cancer Registry, cervical cancer ranks as the fifth most common cancer among women in the UAE, with national incidence rates remaining lower than the global average. MoHAP recommends that women aged 25 to 65 undergo regular cervical cancer screenings every three to five years to facilitate early detection and improve recovery outcomes.