BELIZE CITY – A landmark national initiative to eradicate cervical cancer gained significant momentum on February 27, 2026, as health leaders, clinicians, and advocates convened for a high-level public forum in Belize City. The strategic gathering represents a coordinated national response to what health authorities have identified as an eliminable disease.
The forum was jointly organized by the Belize Cancer Society in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) and Belize’s Ministry of Health and Wellness. The event brought together a diverse coalition including medical professionals, healthcare partners, patient advocates, and cervical cancer survivors to intensify national education efforts focused on prevention and early detection strategies.
Kim Simplis Barrow, President of the Belize Cancer Society, emphasized the forum’s role within the organization’s comprehensive advocacy mission. “Our mandate encompasses advocacy, education, and inspiration. This gathering unites clinicians, healthcare partners, advocates, and importantly, those with lived experience of cervical cancer,” Barrow stated.
Dr. Karen Lewis-Bell, PAHO/WHO Representative in Belize, highlighted the regional significance of the initiative, noting that cervical cancer elimination stands as a priority within PAHO’s disease elimination agenda. “Working with the Belize Cancer Society to enhance public awareness and knowledge about cervical cancer prevention aligns precisely with our mandate,” Dr. Lewis-Bell affirmed.
Health stakeholders throughout the forum emphasized that Belize possesses both the opportunity and responsibility to take decisive action against cervical cancer, which remains a preventable and treatable disease when detected early. The event marks a critical advancement in strengthening Belize’s comprehensive national health response and moving toward complete cervical cancer elimination.