Lebanon (Exclusive Enmaeya) – November 25, 2025
In a step aimed at strengthening the prevention of cervical cancer in Lebanon, the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine will soon be available for free as part of the national immunization program.
This vaccine, which usually costs between $300–$350 for two doses, will initially target adolescent girls to ensure protection for the group most at risk and to promote early prevention of the disease.
Prevention is not optional but essential. Combining vaccination with early screening forms the strongest shield against cervical cancer, allowing for early detection of any cellular changes that could lead to the disease, thereby improving women’s health and significantly reducing the risk of cancer.
Overview of Cervical Cancer
Sources from the Ministry of Health told Enmaeya that cervical cancer is among the most common cancers affecting women worldwide, with over 600,000 new cases reported annually and approximately 340,000 deaths.
Despite its severity, cervical cancer is fully preventable through vaccination and early screening, making awareness and prevention core pillars of public health.
The Ministry of Public Health, in coordination with the GAVI Alliance, is working to include the HPV vaccine in the national immunization schedule, initially targeting adolescent girls, with plans to expand coverage later.
Data indicate that around 12% of women in Lebanon carry HPV with cellular changes that put them at risk for cervical cancer, while 4% carry the virus without it showing in a Pap smear.
According to Ministry of Health data from 2018, the incidence rate of cervical cancer in Lebanon is 5.7 per 1,000 women. This makes HPV screening essential alongside the traditional Pap smear. If the virus is detected, additional tests such as colposcopy and biopsy are recommended to ensure the condition does not progress to cancer.
The Role of Media in Awareness
Media campaigns play a crucial role in disseminating accurate information about prevention and encouraging women to undergo early screening. It is essential to rely on trusted sources such as the Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization (WHO), the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and reputable scientific journals.
Media training also enhances journalists’ ability to verify medical information and report it accurately, reducing misinformation while providing practical advice on early prevention and regular screening.
When Will the Vaccine Be Available?
According to the Ministry of Health, the HPV vaccine will first be introduced within the national immunization program for adolescent girls, with technical support from the GAVI Alliance. Its distribution is expected to begin in the first phase of 2026.
The Ministry will later continue awareness campaigns for older adolescent girls and unvaccinated women, while encouraging them to undergo early screening.
Studies show that combining vaccination before exposure to HPV with regular screening for women beyond adolescence allows for early detection of cellular changes or the virus itself, significantly reducing the risk of cancer development and increasing the chances of successful treatment.
This approach strengthens cervical cancer prevention and ensures long-term women’s health.
With the HPV vaccine available for free and regular screening in place, preventing cervical cancer is no longer just a hope but a practical step toward protecting women’s health and ensuring a longer, safer life.
