Belgium Advances Cervical Cancer Prevention with HPV-Based Screening
Transitioning from Pap test screening to primary HPV-based screening
Belgium Advances Cervical Cancer Prevention with HPV-Based Screening
Brussels, Belgium — Effective 1 January 2025, Belgium has officially transitioned from cytology-based (Pap test) screening to primary HPV-based screening for cervical cancer. This marks a major advancement in evidence-based cancer prevention and aligns Belgium with the latest European and international screening recommendations.
A New Evidence-Based Approach
Under the new programme, women aged 30 to 64 will be invited to undergo an HPV test every five years, replacing the previous three-yearly Pap test (cytology). HPV testing has been shown to be more sensitive in detecting precancerous changes, enabling earlier intervention and reducing the burden of cervical cancer.
Developed Through Collaboration
This transition is the result of close collaboration between public health authorities, healthcare professionals, and screening experts across Belgium. The update reflects the latest scientific evidence and best practices in cervical cancer prevention, supporting the goal of reducing cervical cancer incidence and mortality through early detection.
Information and Resources
Further information about the new cervical cancer screening programme — available in English, French, and Dutch — can be found on the Sciensano website:
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