The month of January is dedicated, internationally, to cervical cancer awarenessa condition that, although it can be prevented and detected early, continues to have a major impact in Romania. In this context, U-BT Cluj-Napoca joins information and prevention campaign regarding HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infectionone of the main causes of this disease.
HPV is an extremely common virus that affects most people throughout their lives. In many cases, the infection goes away on its own, but certain strains of the virus can lead to cervical cancer over time. At the medical level, HPV infection is responsible for approximately 99% of cervical cancer cases.
An alarming reality in Romania
Annually, in Romania, HPV infection causes approximately 3,380 new cases of cervical cancer. Although cervical cancer can be prevented and detected early, our country continues to register some of the highest figures in Europe:
- Romania ranks 1st in Europe in terms of the incidence of cervical cancer
- Cervical cancer is the 3rd most common cancer diagnosed in women in Romania
- Every day, 9 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer. 5 of them lose their battle with the disease
- Despite the possibilities of prevention, the mortality caused by this condition is the highest in the European Union
These data highlight the urgent need for correct information, prevention and access to medical services.
Prevention of cervical cancer
Prevention plays a key role in reducing the incidence and mortality of cervical cancer. At the international level, its importance is widely recognized: on October 31, 2019, the World Health Organization announced that more than 100 countries had introduced HPV vaccination into their National Immunization Programs.
Primary prevention
The HPV vaccine protects against the main strains of the virus associated with cervical and other cancers. Administering the vaccine before exposure to the virus significantly reduces the risk of disease.
Secondary prevention
- Babes Pap test
- screening for HPV types with high oncogenic risk
These methods allow the identification of precancerous lesions and early intervention, before the development of cancer.
The situation of vaccination against HPV in Romania
In recent years, Romania has taken important steps in the direction of prevention. As of December 2023, the anti-HPV vaccination has been officially introduced in the National Vaccination Program and can be administered by the family doctor. From October 1, 2025, anti-HPV vaccination is free for girls and boys between 11-26 years through the family doctor, with 50% compensation for women up to 45 years.
HPV vaccination is based on sound scientific evidence and is recommended by the world’s major medical organizations, from the WHO to the US CDC and the European Medicines Association. Its efficiency in significantly reducing cases of cervical cancer, but also of other forms of cancer caused by HPV, is proven and confirmed by the experience of countries that have successfully implemented immunization programs.
However, the vaccination rate remains low, mainly due to lack of information, myths and reluctance towards the subject. This context explains why, although cervical cancer can be prevented and detected early, Romania continues to register the highest level of mortality in the EU for this condition.
Teal is the color of awareness
Internationally, the color associated with the fight against cervical cancer is teal green, a shade that symbolizes prevention, hope and solidarity. To mark the involvement in this campaign, U-BT will play in special teal kits in two ABA League matches:
The teal gear worn by the players will be part of a unique collection that will be auctioned off at a later date. The amount raised will be donated to associations that support patients diagnosed with cervical cancer, turning the message of awareness into real support.
Through this initiative, U-BT aims to open essential conversations about prevention, information and health care.
