This review aimed to provide the first comprehensive assessment of cervical cancer prevention initiatives across the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR). We systematically searched PubMed on March 20, 2025, screened relevant literature, supplemented findings with WHO and HPV Information Centre data, and extracted country-level information on HPV vaccination and cervical cancer screening policies and practices in the EMR. Of 22 member countries, only eight have national HPV vaccination programs, and just seven offer cervical cancer screening, all of which are opportunistic and based on cytology, an obsolete technology. Barriers include limited public awareness, inadequate engagement of healthcare providers, and underdeveloped healthcare infrastructure. The review also highlights promising innovations such as HPV self-sampling to enhance screening accessibility and feasibility, and DNA methylation markers to improve detection accuracy and risk stratification. Cervical cancer prevention initiatives across the EMR remains insufficient. This review emphasizes the need for greater coordinated efforts to address the growing burden of cervical cancer in the region, strengthen prevention efforts, and enhance healthcare infrastructure. Bridging these gaps requires strengthened systems, expanded access, and multi-stakeholder advocacy and coordinated policies to reduce the region's cervical cancer burden.

Adolescent leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) is associated with favourable cardiometabolic health, yet the influence of specific LTPA types and longer-term outcomes remains unclear. This study investigated whether adolescent participation in specific LTPA types is associated with cardiometabolic health in mid-adulthood. Data were obtained from the Childhood Determinants of Adult Health study, an Australian cohort spanning childhood to mid-adulthood. LTPA at age 15-19years was retrospectively assessed in 2004-2006 using the Historical Leisure Activity Questionnaire, with activities grouped into 16 categories. Cardiometabolic measures (waist circumference, blood pressure, glucose, triglycerides, and HDL cholesterol) were collected at age 36-49years (2014-2019). Metabolic syndrome (MetS) and a continuous MetS score were derived. Analyses included 1232 participants. In males, adolescent football and weight training were associated with a lower risk of MetS in mid-adulthood, while action sports were linked to higher risk. Among females, action sports and running were associated with better cardiometabolic profiles in midlife, whereas martial arts were associated with poorer outcomes. Associations between adolescent LTPA and mid-adult cardiometabolic health varied by activity type and sex. Findings suggest specific adolescent activities may better promote cardiometabolic health into mid-adulthood, yet further research is required to understand the underlying mechanisms.