World Cancer Day: PACE Highlights the Need for Equitable Access to Cancer Prevention
04
Feb
Despite the availability of effective vaccines and screening tools, access to cancer-preventive services remains unequal across Europe. Cancers linked to human papillomavirus (HPV) and viral hepatitis are largely preventable, yet many people continue to face barriers to prevention, early detection and care.
Certain populations, including people living in prison, are disproportionately affected by health inequalities and often experience increased exposure to infectious diseases associated with cancer. Structural, cultural and operational barriers can limit access to vaccination, screening and healthcare services, contributing to poorer health outcomes.
The PACE project aims to address these challenges by improving access to HPV and viral hepatitis prevention in prison settings across Europe. Through collaboration between public health institutions, prison administrations, healthcare providers and researchers, the project seeks to identify effective practices and support their adaptation to different national contexts.
By strengthening vaccination, screening and linkage-to-care pathways, PACE contributes to efforts to reduce preventable cancers and promote greater health equity for underserved populations.
