Cervical cancer awareness month: Screening, how to prevent and more

Cervical cancer remains one of the most preventable yet prevalent forms of cancer affecting women worldwide. January is designated as Cervical Health Awareness Month. The theme for 2025—We Can Prevent Cervical Cancer—highlights a unified call to action.
Organised by the National Cervical Cancer Coalition (NCCC), this campaign aims to inform, inspire, and mobilise communities to prioritise cervical health and embrace preventative measures.

Understanding cervical cancer
Cervical cancer develops in the cells of the cervix—the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. The primary cause of cervical cancer is persistent infection with high-risk strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). While the disease can occur at any age, it is most common in women under 35.

The statistics are sobering: globally, cervical cancer affects over 6 lakh women annually and causes more than 3.4 lakh deaths, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Despite these numbers, cervical cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when detected early.

How to prevent cervical cancer
1. Vaccination against HPV
The HPV vaccine is a groundbreaking tool in the fight against cervical cancer. It is highly effective in protecting against the high-risk strains of HPV responsible for nearly 70 per cent of cases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the vaccine for boys and girls starting at age 11 or 12, although it can be administered as early as 9 and up to 26.

Recent guidelines allow for catch-up vaccinations up to 45 for those who missed early vaccination after consulting with a healthcare provider. The vaccine has demonstrated a remarkable safety profile, with benefits far outweighing the minimal risks of side effects.

2. Regular screening tests
Cervical cancer screening is a proven method for early detection. Two primary screening tests are available:
Pap smear (Pap Test): This test identifies abnormal cervical cells that may develop into cancer.
HPV test: This detects the presence of high-risk HPV types in cervical cells.
Women aged 21-29 should have a Pap test every three years. For women aged 30-65, co-testing with both Pap and HPV tests every five years (or Pap tests alone every three years) is recommended. Early detection through screening significantly reduces cervical cancer mortality.

3. Safe practices and risk reduction
HPV is transmitted through sexual contact, making safe sexual practices crucial in reducing the risk of infection. Using condoms, limiting the number of sexual partners, and avoiding smoking—a known co-factor for HPV—are vital steps in maintaining cervical health.

Raising awareness: Steps to get involved
1. Share information
Knowledge is power. Spread awareness about the importance of HPV vaccination and cervical cancer screening within your community. Utilise social media platforms, local forums, and community events to share accurate information. For instance, sharing simple infographics about the HPV vaccine or screening schedules can empower women to take proactive steps toward their health.
2. Participate in events
The NCCC and its local chapters organise events such as awareness walks, softball tournaments, yoga sessions, and educational workshops. These gatherings foster community support while promoting critical health messages. (The NCCC is an independent coalition of women's groups, affected individuals and family members, healthcare providers, companies, and associations. Founded in 1996, the non-profit, grassroots organisation works to help women in the fight against cervical cancer.)
3. Encourage open conversations
Stigma and misinformation often prevent women from seeking care. Encourage open conversations about cervical health to break barriers and create a supportive environment. Sharing personal stories of overcoming HPV or cervical health challenges can be particularly impactful.

Progress and challenges
Global efforts to eliminate cervical cancer
In 2020, the WHO launched a global strategy to accelerate cervical cancer elimination as a public health problem. The strategy outlines three ambitious goals to be achieved by 2030:
90% Vaccination Coverage: Ensure that 90 per cent of girls are fully vaccinated with the HPV vaccine by age 15.
70% Screening Coverage: By age 35 and again by age 45, screen 70 per cent of women with a high-performance test.
90% Access to Treatment: Provide treatment for 90 per cent of women with pre-cancer and ensure that 90 per cent of women with invasive cancer have access to care.
These targets aim to reduce cervical cancer mortality by 30 per cent by 2030 and eliminate the disease as a public health problem by 2120. While the progress is promising, challenges such as vaccine hesitancy, limited access to healthcare, and cultural barriers must be addressed to achieve these goals.

Addressing disparities
Cervical cancer disproportionately affects women in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where resources for prevention and treatment are limited. Over 85 per cent of cervical cancer deaths occur in LMICs. Bridging this gap requires international collaboration, increased funding for healthcare infrastructure, and innovative solutions like portable screening technologies.

Rwanda’s comprehensive HPV programme
Rwanda serves as a model for cervical cancer prevention in LMICs. By implementing a national HPV vaccination programme and expanding access to screening, the country has achieved over 90 per cent vaccination coverage among school-aged girls. This comprehensive approach demonstrates the impact of political commitment and community engagement.

Community-driven awareness in the United States
In the US, grassroots initiatives led by local NCCC chapters have successfully increased awareness and screening rates. For example, "Yoga for Cervical Health" events have combined wellness practices with educational workshops, fostering physical and mental health.
Moving forward: Your role in prevention
Cervical cancer prevention is a shared responsibility. Whether you’re a healthcare provider, educator, parent, or advocate, your efforts can save lives. Here are some simple ways to make a difference:

Schedule Your Checkups: Ensure you and your loved ones are up-to-date on cervical health screenings.
Advocate for Vaccination: Talk to schools, workplaces, and community groups about implementing HPV vaccination programs.
Volunteer: Support organizations like the NCCC by volunteering your time, expertise, or resources.

The power of awareness
Cervical Health Awareness Month is more than an observance; it’s a movement to eliminate cervical cancer. With vaccination, regular screenings, and informed communities, we can achieve a future free from cervical cancer.
By joining hands in 2025 and beyond, we can work toward the WHO’s ambitious goal of eliminating cervical cancer as a public health problem. Remember: "We Can Prevent Cervical Cancer." Together, we can protect, educate, and inspire a healthier tomorrow.
(Dr Deepthi TR is a specialist in Early Cancer Detection and Prevention at Oncure Preventive and Healthcare Centre, Kannur)