Muscat – Cervical cancer is emerging as a growing public health challenge in Oman with nearly 90 new cases and about 50 deaths reported annually, according to the Ministry of Health (MoH).

Officials say the figures highlight the urgent need for greater awareness, early detection and wider preventive measures, particularly through human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and routine screening programmes.

Dr Hanan bint Salem al Kindi, Director of Public Health Laboratories Department at MoH, said incidence can be drastically reduced through preventive strategies. “With the right measures in place, such as the HPV vaccine and timely screening, we can significantly reduce the burden.”

Cervical cancer, which develops in the cells of the cervix – the lower part of the uterus – is one of the few cancers that is both detectable and preventable. Yet, late diagnosis continues to be a major concern in Oman and across the region.

Dr Fatima al Wahaibi, Consultant Gynaecologist at Sultan Qaboos Comprehensive Cancer Care and Research Centre, said the disease is largely linked to persistent HPV infection, which can be prevented through vaccination. “The HPV vaccine is a proven shield. If we vaccinate girls early and ensure regular screenings for women, we can catch pre-cancerous changes well before they develop into full-blown cancer,” she noted.

The ministry has intensified awareness campaigns to educate women – and parents of adolescent girls – about the risks of cervical cancer and the importance of early intervention. Health centres across the sultanate are now equipped to provide HPV vaccines and cervical screening tests such as Pap smears.

Public health experts in the GCC and wider Middle East have echoed these concerns, pointing to cultural taboos, lack of awareness and limited access to screening services in some areas as barriers to early detection.

“This is a preventable cancer, but we need a societal shift in how we view women’s health, especially reproductive health,” Dr Fatima said. “Raising awareness, encouraging dialogue and breaking the stigma around screening are critical steps.”

Globally, cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The World Health Organization has called on nations to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem by the end of this century through comprehensive vaccination and screening.

In line with this global goal, MoH is urging families in Oman to participate in the country’s preventive health programmes. The message from the medical community is clear: vaccinate early, screen regularly and act promptly.

“This is a defining moment for Oman. The steps we take today could save hundreds of lives in the coming years,” Dr Fatima added.