HPV Vaccination and Cytopathological Screening: Lessons From Australia in Cervical Cancer Prevention and Challenges in Rio Grande Do Sul

Human papillomavirus (HPV) has more than 200 subtypes. Genotypes 16 and 18 are associated with cervical cancer, which predominantly affects women aged 25 to 64 years. Prevention is achieved through condom use, vaccination – available through the Unified Health System (SUS) – and cytopathological screening. In Brazil, the state of Rio Grande do Sul ranks fourth in cervical cancer incidence, with low vaccination coverage and poor adherence to screening. In contrast, Australia – pioneer in HPV vaccination – is on track to eliminate this cancer by 2035, serving as a global reference in prevention. This study aims to compare the prevalence of cervical cancer before and after HPV vaccination between Rio Grande do Sul and Australia, highlighting the importance of cytopathological screening and vaccination in disease reduction. A bibliographic review was conducted using the Keywords cervical cancer; HPV; cytopathology; vaccination, in the “DataSUS” and “Australian Institute of Health and Welfare” databases. The study analyzed women aged 25 to 64 years, cytopathological tests performed during the period, number of diagnosed cervical cancer cases, and vaccination coverage in Rio Grande do Sul (2022) and Australia (2006 and 2022). In 2022, Rio Grande do Sul showed low cytopathological screening coverage, with only 0.27% of women aged 25–64 screened, and 13% of these cases diagnosed with cervical cancer. In the same age group, Australia achieved 68% screening coverage, with a cancer detection rate of 0.1%. Regarding HPV vaccination, 78% of girls aged 9–14 were vaccinated in Rio Grande do Sul versus 85% in Australia, demonstrating the positive impact of broad vaccination and systematic screening. Vaccination and screening significantly impact the epidemiological profile of cervical cancer over time. The Australian model, characterized by high coverage and substantial reduction in incidence, serves as a reference. In contrast, Rio Grande do Sul shows low adherence to preventive measures and higher disease rates. Strengthening public policies with continuous monitoring is essential to effectively reduce cervical cancer in the region.