Cervical Cancer Awareness Month: Empowering Women with Knowledge and Action

January marks Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting prevention, early detection, and efforts to combat a largely preventable disease. Nearly all cervical cancer cases stem from high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infections, yet vaccines and screenings have dramatically reduced U.S. rates. Although national figures show progress, regional disparities persist. For instance, Georgia’s cervical cancer incidence exceeds the national average, and mortality is higher in underserved communities, underscoring the need for access to care. 

Cervical Cancer: Description and Diagnosis

Cervical cancer develops in the cells lining the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Detection primarily relies on screening tests such as the Pap test (Pap smear), which examines cervical cells for abnormalities under a microscope, and high-risk HPV testing, which identifies cancer-causing HPV strains.  

 These tests can detect precancerous changes or early cancer when treatment is most effective—often before symptoms appear. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends starting Pap tests at age 21 and repeating them every three years. For ages 30-65, options include Pap every three years, HPV every five years, or co-testing every five years. Most women over 65 with adequate prior negatives can stop, though late-stage risks rise in some groups, so check with your doctor to confirm. 

Risk Factors

Certain factors can increase the risk of developing cervical cancer. The main cause is infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV), which is more likely with multiple sexual partners or with sexual intercourse at a young age (especially before age 18). Smoking also raises the risk by exposing cervical cells to harmful chemicals and weakening the body’s ability to fight HPV. Having a close relative with cervical cancer may also increase risk, possibly because of shared genes or other family factors. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists notes that some people need closer screening, including those with HIV, weakened immune systems, a history of exposure to the drug DES before birth, or previous abnormal cervical test results or cervical cancer. 

Prevention hinges on vaccination—Gardasil 9 protects against key HPV strains and is recommended at ages 11-12 (up to 45), slashing incidence by 65% among U.S. women under 25 from 2012-2019. Early detection and HPV shots could virtually eliminate cervical cancer. 

Here’s what you can do to protect your cervical health:

• Get vaccinated against HPV** early (ideally ages 9-12) to prevent infection by high-risk strains that cause 90% of cases. 
• Schedule regular screenings starting at age 21 to catch issues early 
• Discuss your personal risk with your provider, including family history or immunosuppression, and maintain overall wellness by quitting smoking. 

Call 404-564-7749 or go online today to book your screening or vaccine appointment with HEALING Community Health and take a powerful step toward prevention.