Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer, both in incidence and mortality, in women of all ages in Latin America (LA). It is currently estimated that 63,068 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year, and 29,222 die from this disease.

This report reviews the results of a survey administered to professional managers of cervical cancer programs and participants in the PAHO Workshop on VIA and Cryotherapy held in Guatemala City in June 2011. 

The significantly limited impact of cytology based cervical cancer screening programs in developing countries is now widely recognized. There are several reasons for these limits, ranging from the nature of participation of women in screening programs to the access and timely completion of treatment when necessary.