Conclusion
We have placed policies for implementing cervical cancer prevention and control strategies into a conceptual framework that illustrates how they relate to other elements of cancer control. In addition, we have described policies, both existing and anticipated, along the cancer continuum from prevention, through early detection, to treatment and follow-up. Policies can and have to be implemented at multiple levels, including the national, state and local government levels, as well as by health plans and individual providers of care. Existing policies are primarily focused on early detection, but a new understanding of the role of the human papillomavirus in cervical cancer will result in new policies for primary prevention as well. Additionally, policies that define the quality of cervical cancer care are in development, and consensus is being sought on recommendations for coverage, reimbursement, guideline development, and further research. Strategies at any point along the cancer continuum should be based on evidence that relates not just to the biology of the disease and co-morbid conditions, but to the realities of the health care system (e.g., insurance coverage, lack of follow-up) and epidemiologic factors, such as age, race/ethnicity, and social class. Thus, strategies for implementing cervical cancer prevention and control must take into account the capacity of low-resource settings. Likewise, where resources are more abundant, coordination between the multiple entities involved in the care of women at risk of or diagnosed with cervical cancer is needed to more effectively reduce the burden of this disease.