Cervical cancer is nearly 100% preventable and highly treatable when caught early. We’re here to bridge the gap in care for every woman.
Cervical cancer occurs in the cells of the cervix—the lower part of the uterus that connects
to the vagina. Various strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted
infection, play a role in causing most cervical cancer.
The most important thing to know: Cervical cancer is highly preventable with regular
screening and the HPV vaccine.
When caught in the pre-cancerous
stage, treatment is nearly 100%
successful.
Almost all cervical cancers are caused
by persistent HPV infections.
What is cancer?
Cancer is what happens when your body’s cells grow in an uncontrollable way and damages healthy parts.
What is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer starts in the cells lining the cervix - the lower part of the uterus (womb). This is sometimes called the uterine cervix. The fetus grows in the body of the uterus (the upper part). The cervix connects the body of the uterus to the vagina (birth canal).
Why is cervical cancer awareness important?
Cervical cancer can often be prevented through vaccination, regular screening, and timely follow-up care. When found early, it is highly curable.
What are the signs and symptoms of cervical cancer?
Early cervical cancers and pre-cancers usually have no symptoms.
As it grows, cervical cancer might cause signs and symptoms, such as:
Who gets cervical cancer?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2022, cervical cancer was the fourth most common cancer in women, globally.In the United States, cervical cancer is frequently found in women between the ages of 35 and 44 with the average age at diagnosis being 50. Hispanic women are most likely to get cervical cancer, but African-American women are most likely to die from cervical cancer.
Why does this matter?
This reinforces the importance of prevention, routine screening, and follow-up care, especially for communities facing higher risk or worse outcomes.
What is the most important risk factor for cervical cancer?
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
HPV is the most important risk factor for cervical cancer. It can spread from one person to another during skin-to-skin contact. One way the virus spreads is through sexual activity, including vaginal, anal, and even oral sex.
What other factors can increase risk?
Other risk factors include:
Chlamydia infection
Long-term use of oral contraceptives
Having 3 or more full-term pregnancies
Being younger than 17 at first full-term pregnancy
Exposure to DES before birth
Low economic status
A diet low in fruits and vegetables
Smoking
Being overweight
Having a weakened immune system
How is cervical cancer detected?
Cervical cancer is often detected through:
Because HPV vaccination doesn’t protect against all HPV types that can cause cervical cancer, getting screened at regular intervals is still important. It is important for people with a cervix to have regular screening tests starting in their 20s.
Pap Smear screening guidelines:
Why is regular screening still important if someone gets the HPV vaccine?
The HPV vaccine does not protect against all HPV types that can cause cervical cancer, so regular screening remains important.
When should routine Pap smears begin?
Routine Pap smears should begin at age 21.
How often should screening happen between ages 21 and 29?
Routine Pap smear every 3 years.
How often should screening happen between ages 30 and 65?
Routine Pap smear every 3 years
HPV test every 5 years
Co-testing with Pap smear and HPV test every 5 years
Is a Pelvic Exam the same thing as a Pap Smear?
No, a pelvic exam is not the same as a Pap smear.
The pelvic exam is part of a woman’s routine health care. These exams may help find other types of cancers and reproductive problems. Ask your doctor if you had a Pap test with your pelvic exam.
What does a normal result mean?
Normal results mean you come back during routine screening recommendation.
What does an abnormal result mean?
An abnormal result means follow-up testing is needed. This may include:
Why is follow-up important?
For cervical cancer screening to be effective, people need timely screening and timely follow-up of abnormal results.
How can HPV risk be reduced?
Encourage sexual partners to get the HPV vaccine
Get the HPV vaccine
Is prevention still important even with screening?
Yes, prevention and screening work together. Vaccination can reduce risk, while screening can catch cell changes early.
Does the HPV vaccine prevent cervical cancer?
HPV vaccination is a safe and effective way to help prevent cervical cancer, but it does not treat an existing HPV infection.
When should someone get the HPV vaccine?
The HPV vaccine offers the most protection when given before a person becomes sexually active. Gardasil 9 is the FDA-approved vaccine for females and males aged 9 to 45 in the United States. Talk to your primary care provider to discuss the best options for you.
What ages are routinely recommended for vaccination?
It is routinely recommended for girls and boys ages 11 or 12, although it can be given as early as age 9. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now recommends that all 11- and 12-year-olds receive two doses of HPV vaccine at least six months apart. Teens and young adults who begin the vaccine series later, at ages 15 through 26, should continue to receive three doses of the vaccine. The CDC now recommends catch-up HPV vaccinations for all people through age 26 who aren’t adequately vaccinated. Some adults between the ages of 27 and 45 who are not already vaccinated may decide to get the HPV vaccine after talking with their doctor about their risk of new HPV infections.
Cervical cancer is highly preventable and highly curable if caught early. Nearly all cervical cancers could be prevented through HPV vaccination, routine screening, and appropriate follow-up treatment when needed.
If you need help understanding screening, finding care, or taking the next step after an abnormal result, Equal Hope is here to support you. The goal is not just to provide information but to help remove barriers to timely care.
The best time to protect your health is before symptoms appear. Learn your risk, stay up to date on screening, and take action early.
