Strengthening Cervical Cancer Control in Cambodia: Learning from Japan’s Experience

From 6^th to 14^th July 2026, 10 Cambodian counterparts from the Cambodia’s Ministry of Health, Kampong Cham Provincial Health Department, and Kampong Cham Provincial Hospital participated in the Knowledge Co-Creation Program on Cervical Cancer Program management and Service Delivery in Japan.

The participants visited the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, Yokohama City University, Yokohama City Hall, Koseki Obstetric and Gynecology Clinic, Hoken Kagaku Inc., and Japan Institute for Health Security to learn about Japan’s health system, cancer control policies, and cervical cancer screening initiatives. While recognizing the differences in health systems of Cambodia and Japan, the participants strengthened their knowledge and skills in HPV test-based cervical cancer screening program, from awareness-raising and sample collection to laboratory HPV testing and cytology, colposcopic diagnosis, and precancer treatment.

The Cambodian Ministry of Health is currently preparing to introduce an HPV test-based cervical cancer screening program in seven provinces, including Kampong Cham. The training therefore provided a timely opportunity for the participants to learn from Japan’s experience before the planned rollout begins.

At the end of the training, the participants presented action plans to apply the knowledge gained in Japan to strengthen cervical cancer control capacities in Cambodia. They also developed a concrete provincial action plan to facilitate the smooth implementation of the program in Kampong Cham Province.