Cervical cancer ranks as the fourth most prevalent cancer among women globally.¹ It stands as the most frequently diagnosed cancer in 23 nations and serves as the primary cause of cancer-related deaths in 36 countries.² January marks Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, a time to shed light on one of the most preventable cancers affecting women worldwide. It’s crucial to understand this disease, particularly its prevalence, preventive measures, screening methods, and the type of insurance coverage available for cervical cancer.

To help understand the current environment of cervical cancer in the Asian market, we start with some summarised population statistics and Critical Illness (CI) incidence rates from Gen Re’s Dread Disease Survey (DD Survey) in the pictogram below,³ with a focus on China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Singapore markets.

According to findings from the DD Survey, the ASIR for cervical cancer within traditional CI products demonstrates varying trends. While it shows an upward trajectory in Hong Kong and Malaysia, a declining pattern is observed in Singapore, and it remains relatively steady in China.

Prevention is Key – The Importance of HPV Vaccination

It is reported that 99.7% of cervical cancer cases are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.⁴ HPV infection is a common sexually transmitted infection that can infiltrate cervical cells, leading to abnormal growths that can evolve into cancerous formations.

The development of prophylactic HPV vaccination has made possible the elimination of cervical cancer. Extensive trials have evidenced the safety, effectiveness, and enduring impact of HPV vaccines in preventing precancerous lesions and infections. The vaccine stimulates the body’s immune system and prompts the production of antibodies that can combat the virus.

It has been shown that HPV vaccination is most effective when administered to young girls before potential exposure to HPV through sexual activity. Girls are recommended to get vaccinated between the ages of nine and 14. The 9‑valent vaccine has also demonstrated efficacy in preventing infections and diseases linked to the HPV types it addresses, amplifying the overall prevention of HPV-related ailments. However, the primary focus remains on vaccinating all girls before 15 years of age.

Due to cervical cancer being highly preventable, in May 2018 the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a call to action for the elimination of cervical cancer as a public health problem. In November 2020, the WHO officially launched the global strategy to accelerate the elimination of cervical cancer, which sets ambitious targets for 2030. The targets are:⁵

Various measures have been adopted by state authorities in the prevention of cervical cancer following the call from the WHO. We have summarised the current HPV measures implemented by the authorities in China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Singapore and the latest information on the screening coverage in each region in the picture below.⁶

Early Detection Saves Lives

As we have emphasised before, HPV vaccination serves as the primary preventive measure for cervical cancer. Despite the effectiveness of the vaccination, it doesn’t give protection against all strain types of HPV. Therefore, screening for early identification of cervical cancer also stands as a pivotal factor in curbing cervical cancer.

Timely diagnosis and treatment of cervical cancer at its initial stages significantly enhances the prospects of a cure. The primary risk factor for cervical cancer remains persistent high-risk HPV infection, capable of triggering abnormal changes within cervical cells known as cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), which, if left untreated, can progress to cancer. Hence, regular screening tests are essential for detecting and managing CIN before it progresses to a malignant stage. Women are advised to undergo cervical cancer screening every three to five years depending on the type of screenings.⁷

There are three types of cervical cancer screening test. Summaries of the screenings, focused on the benefits of each of them, are shown in the table below.

How Insurers can Support their Customers

Insurers play a pivotal role in supporting their policyholders in cervical cancer prevention, awareness, and treatment, holding various social responsibilities. First, highlighting the availability of state-sponsored HPV vaccination programmes is crucial. Proactive measures can include notifying policyholders through their agents or dedicated customer support applications to prompt regular screening. Insurers can also educate policyholders who are parents of young girls on the importance of HPV vaccination. In instances where HPV vaccination isn’t free, insurers might consider subsidising the cost, serving as a reminder for policyholders to consider vaccination for themselves or their dependents.

Insurers can proactively offer incentives such as vouchers or premium discounts for policyholders attending regular cervical cancer screenings. This proactive approach aids in early detection, facilitating timely intervention before symptoms manifest. Subsequently, financial assistance can be extended to cover treatments recommended by specialists for eradicating cancerous cells.

CI policies typically offer the full sum assured for diagnosed cervical cancer. Additionally, some policies covering minor illnesses provide a lump sum, roughly 20% of the sum assured, for CIN (carcinoma in situ). This multifaceted approach by insurers not only supports early detection and treatment but also fosters a proactive stance towards preventive healthcare.

At Gen Re, we believe that putting customers’ health first is extremely important. This is especially the case for cervical cancer where prevention is key. We support initiatives that insurers would like to provide, including customised customer engagement support that aims to promote vaccination and screening packages. Speak to our representatives today on innovative ideas for Life and Health insurance.

Advocating for Change

Cervical Cancer Awareness Month serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of proactive healthcare. By raising awareness, advocating for vaccinations and screenings, ensuring adequate insurance coverage, and providing holistic support, we can collectively work towards reducing the impact of cervical cancer on individuals and societies.

The significance of cervical cancer awareness extends beyond this dedicated month. Let’s continue to educate, support, and empower one another in the ongoing effort to prevent and combat this disease.