During the session, the project leaders presented their initiatives and the challenges in improving care for patients with gynecological cancer. The three selected projects are "Implementation of the population program for early detection of cervical cancer with self-sampling in Catalonia", "Integral circuit for vulvovaginal sequelae", and "Digital and territorial model for cervical cancer screening in Central Catalonia CÈRVIX 360º".
The first initiative, driven by the Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), the Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), the Bellvitge University Hospital, and the ASSIR Delta de Llobregat, proposes to implement population-based screening for cervical cancer using human papillomavirus (HPV) self-sampling in women aged 30 to 65, aiming to eliminate this type of cancer in Catalonia.
The project "Integral circuit for vulvovaginal sequelae", developed by the Gynecological Oncology Functional Unit of the ICO and the Girona University Hospital Dr. Josep Trueta, proposes a multidisciplinary approach to prevent, detect, and treat vulvovaginal sequelae and sexual dysfunction in women who are survivors of gynecological cancer, seeking to improve their quality of life.
Meanwhile, "CÈRVIX 360º", promoted by the Pathology and Gynecology and Obstetrics departments of the Vic University Hospital and the ASSIRs of Central Catalonia, aims to connect 57 ASSIR centers through a unified logistical, digital, and diagnostic process for cervical cancer screening.
Until next November 20th, the three projects can be voted on through the Impulsa Program website. Public voting will account for 10% of the final score, while the remaining 90% will be assessed by an evaluation committee. The winner will be announced on November 26th.
The session also included a round table with the participation of Dr. Lydia Gaba (Hospital Clínic de Barcelona), Dr. Pilar Barretina (Catalan Institute of Oncology), and Esther Funes (Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Association - AMOH). The experts agreed on the importance of strengthening health education, professional training, prevention, and early detection, as well as the role of technological and organizational innovation in improving health outcomes.
The Impulsa Program, driven by the CSC, seeks to identify and highlight innovative projects in the health and social care sectors of the public system to promote transformation and improve people's care.
