Cervical cancer, which is caused by a persistent HPV infection in nearly 100% of cases, is preventable through HPV vaccination and screening.
In this context, Santé publique France’s efforts focus on epidemiological surveillance, evaluating the organized screening program, promoting HPV vaccination, and assessing the impact of vaccination on HPV-related diseases.

Epidemiological Surveillance of Cervical Cancer

Surveillance supports the management and evaluation of cancer prevention and treatment measures. It is carried out through a scientific and financial partnership involving the Francim cancer registry network, the Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Department of the Hospices Civils de Lyon (HCL), Santé publique France, and the National Cancer Institute (INCa).

These four partners have defined a work program aimed in particular at:

• develop initiatives to facilitate the recording of cancers in registries (access to data sources) as well as the systematic collection of new variables;

• regularly produce and make available essential epidemiological indicators (incidence, mortality, survival, prevalence);

• develop thematic projects, particularly in conjunction with Santé publique France’s directorates.

Monitoring of Estimated Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination Coverage Among Adolescents

Vaccination against human papillomavirus infections is recommended for all girls aged 11 to 14. It is most effective when girls have not yet been exposed to the risk of HPV infection. When administered before the onset of sexual activity, the vaccine is nearly 100% effective in preventing infection with the HPV types included in the vaccine. Additionally, as part of catch-up vaccination efforts, vaccination is recommended for girls and young women aged 15 to 19.
Santé publique France is responsible for monitoring and estimating vaccination coverage against human papillomavirus (HPV) infections among young people. These estimates are based on data from the national health insurance system and are published annually.

Promoting HPV Vaccination

Santé publique France participates annually in European Cervical Cancer Prevention Week. During this event, the importance of vaccination and screening is emphasized.
Additionally, Santé publique France communicates with the general public about the importance of vaccinating young girls against human papillomavirus infections, particularly through the website vaccination-info-service.fr.

Evaluation of the organized cervical cancer screening program

In 2018, a national organized cervical cancer screening program (PNDOCCU) was launched, with the goal of reducing the incidence and mortality from cervical cancer by 30% over ten years. To achieve this goal, the PNDOCCU aims to increase screening coverage to 80%, reduce social and regional disparities in screening, and improve the quality of professional practices.

Santé publique France conducts an annual evaluation of the organized screening program.