At the end of January, the Republic of Moldova marked International Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, an initiative dedicated to promoting prevention, early detection, and raising awareness among women about the importance of regular medical check-ups and vaccination against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

Throughout the week, healthcare professionals, medical institutions, and national and international partners joined the campaign, strengthening prevention messages and encouraging women to use the free services provided under the National Cervical Screening Programme.

Electronic Invitations: A Key Step in Screening Digitalization

In 2026, for the first time, eligible women were invited to participate in cervical screening through electronic notifications sent via the government platform mNotify. This allows family doctors to issue digital invitations, facilitating access to screening services.

Cytology test results are entered into the Automated Primary Healthcare Information System (SIA AMP). Depending on the results, women are either monitored or referred to colposcopy services for further investigation and treatment, in line with national clinical protocols.

During the activities, challenges limiting women’s participation in preventive check-ups were also discussed, including internal and external migration. Proposed solutions include expanding the use of electronic invitations and strengthening healthcare services at the local level.

Focus on Women in the Diaspora

The 2026 edition placed special emphasis on women in the diaspora, citizens of the Republic of Moldova who have equal rights to access free cervical screening services.

Between 26 and 31 January 2026, a nationwide campaign was conducted to send electronic notifications to eligible women, including those living abroad, to inform them and facilitate appointments for free cytological screening.

Upon returning to the country, these women can benefit from free services provided under the National Cervical Screening Programme. The initiative encourages continued engagement with Moldova’s healthcare system and regular participation in preventive check-ups.

The campaign message stated:

“Wherever you are, stay connected to the healthcare system of the Republic of Moldova. Regular screening protects you, and notifications bring you closer.”

Encouraging Results of the National Cervical Screening Programme

In the Republic of Moldova, cervical screening is available to all women aged 25 to 61, regardless of insurance status, and is provided free of charge once every three years through family doctors. Women at increased risk are screened more frequently, in accordance with medical recommendations.

In recent years, the results of the National Cervical Screening Programme have become increasingly evident. Coverage of cytological screening rose significantly from 36% in 2021 to over 62% in 2025.

During the week, healthcare professionals participated in interviews and public appearances, emphasizing that cervical cancer is among the most preventable forms of cancer and that colposcopy plays a key role in early detection.

The Role of the National Colposcopy Network

The importance of the National Colposcopy Network, comprising 12 clinics across the country, was highlighted. These clinics are digitally connected to the National Reference Centre for Colposcopy and to the Cervical Screening Implementation Coordination Unit at the Mother and Child Institute, facilitating access to specialized investigations for women in both urban and rural areas.

The network has made a substantial contribution to early detection and timely treatment of precancerous lesions, achieving a success rate of 91%. In 2024, most cervical cancer cases detected through the national programme were identified at early stages, when treatment is significantly more effective.

HPV Vaccination: A Key Pillar of Prevention

Another major focus of the campaign was vaccination against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). HPV vaccination is included in the National Immunization Programme and is provided free of charge to:

• girls and boys aged 9 to 14 years, in a single dose;

• women up to 26 years of age, in two doses.

Partnership for Women’s Health

Activities under International Cervical Cancer Prevention Week were coordinated by the Cervical Screening Implementation Coordination Unit at the Mother and Child Institute, under the auspices of the Ministry of Health, with the support of the National Health Insurance Company, the National Agency for Public Health, the Electronic Governance Agency, the Bureau for Diaspora Relations, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), colposcopy centres, and the network of family doctors.

Although the prevention week has concluded, its message remains relevant: regular screening and HPV vaccination can prevent most cases of cervical cancer.