Early Detection Saves Lives: Why I Stand Behind Cervical Health Awareness

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness (CCA) Month, a time to educate people about the causes and how to go about preventing cervical cancer, which can be achieved through screening and vaccines. People can participate by starting fundraisers, making donations, or sharing information using the #CervicalHealthMonth hashtag. It is a topic close to my heart, considering my history.

It wasn’t until my mid-20s that I started having pap smears, which is a routine test to screen for cervical cancer risk factors. I’d put them off because I felt awkward and uncomfortable about the whole idea and couldn’t see how necessary it was at my age. Eventually, I found a doctor I felt comfortable with and finally had my first pap test. And you know what? It was not as awful as I thought. Sure, it was a little uncomfortable, but not the huge ordeal I had built up in my head. I walked out of the clinic feeling very proud of myself and thankful for a doctor with such a comforting bedside manner. 

A week later, I received a call asking me to return to the clinic for the results. It turns out I had abnormal cell changes, which is what a pap test looks for. I was referred to a specialist and diagnosed with lesions caused by the Human papillomavirus (HPV). More tests thankfully confirmed that the lesions were not cancerous, but I was closely monitored and took supplements to boost my immune system for two years until I received a pap test that gave me the all-clear. 

Now, due to my age and testing advancements, I only have to undergo routine tests every five years. It’s a small ordeal and well worth it, thanks to how effective these tests are at early detection of cervical cancer.

After this experience, I became a big advocate for encouraging my friends to have routine pap tests. Why? Because detecting any abnormal results as early as possible can mean the difference between treating cervical cancer before it has progressed too far for meaningful results and allowing the array of new treatments and medications to slow the progression of the disease. According to the National Cancer Institute, the 5-year relative survival rate is 91% for early-stage cervical cancer that is treated, but that drops to 60% if the cancer has spread.

Every year in the United States, according to cancer.org, almost 14,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer, and more than 4,300 could die from it. However, preventing cervical cancer spread is possible if the cancer is found early. Cervical cancer is different from many other cancers because it doesn’t mainly affect older people. The average age when a woman is diagnosed is just 47, and nearly half of the women with invasive cervical cancer are under 35. Since this serious illness can affect women of all ages, especially younger ones, it’s important for women to get regular pap smears to catch it early. Awareness of this is one of the key aims of Cervical Cancer Awareness Month.

How do you get cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer starts when abnormal cells grow in the cervix. If it isn’t treated, it can spread to nearby areas in the pelvis or other body parts. The disease can affect anyone with an intact cervix, including trans men. The HPV virus causes most cases of cervical cancer, and preventing it is possible with an HPV vaccine and regular pap testing.

What is the HPV virus?

The HPV virus, or human papillomavirus, is a very common sexually transmitted virus that both men and women can carry. It causes skin/mucous membrane warts. There are over 100 types of HPV, and some types can cause cervical cancer. HPV usually doesn’t cause symptoms; in most cases, the body gets rid of the virus on its own. However, if the body can’t clear the infection, it can sometimes lead to changes in cervical cells. Over time, these changes could develop into cervical cancer if not treated. It typically takes 10 to 15 years for a long-lasting HPV infection to cause these cell changes. Catching HPV early allows doctors to monitor and treat any abnormal cell changes before they turn into cancer. This is why regular screenings are essential – they can detect abnormal cells before they become cancerous.

Is there a cervical cancer vaccine?

There is a vaccine available that can protect against certain types of HPV that can lead to cervical cancer. It is recommended that children receive the HPV vaccine at the age of 11 or 12. While biological males cannot get cervical cancer, they can carry HPV and pass it on to others, which is why the vaccine is recommended for all genders. It is most effective if given before someone becomes sexually active, and it is one of the best methods for preventing cervical cancer.

What is the purpose of CCA month?

Cervical Cancer Awareness Month is promoted to help people learn more about cervical cancer, what causes it, and why pap tests and HPV vaccination are so important. The National Cervical Cancer Coalition (NCCC) and the American Sexual Health Association (ASHA) team up with local groups to spread the word about cervical health. By learning about the causes, risks, and symptoms of cervical cancer, women can know when to seek help.

Cervical cancer awareness months allow people to share information and resources about the disease with their friends and family. It can help those with cervical cancer feel more supported if others understand what they are going through.

How to get involved

People can help spread awareness about cervical cancer in a few ways. 

• They can reach out to local news outlets with information from the ASHA/NCCC press release. They can also share their own stories or post NCCC messages on social media using #CervicalHealthMonth.
• During Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, people can wear a teal and white ribbon on their clothes. This simple action shows support for those affected by cervical cancer and helps bring more attention to the disease.
• They can share materials like e-books, posters, and podcasts to help educate others about cervical cancer. Groups like the NCCC and government organizations like the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have helpful information on preventing cervical cancer.
• They can host local events to raise money for cervical cancer research and get people talking about the importance of this issue. 

I have been affected by cervical cancer. Where can I find information and support?

Cervical cancer can impact lives in many ways, but there are support services available to help.

• The NCCC Community connects people who have been affected by cervical cancer. Members can ask questions, share advice, and support each other through similar experiences.
• The American Cancer Society (ACS) offers resources like a 24/7 helpline, help to find places to stay during treatment and transportation to treatment facilities.
• The Foundation for Women’s Cancer provides an online space where people with gynecological cancers can share their stories to encourage and inspire others. 

While it’s natural to feel anxious or uncomfortable about routine pap smears, it’s important to remember that this simple test plays a vital role in protecting health and preventing cervical cancer. Avoiding it may feel easier in the moment, a feeling I can certainly attest to, but taking this small step can make a big difference in detecting potential issues early and ensuring your well-being in the long run. Pushing past the fear is an act of self-care and empowerment—because prioritizing health today helps safeguard your future. All women deserve that peace of mind.

FAQs

How is a pap test performed?

A gynecologist or other healthcare provider typically performs a pap test during a routine pelvic exam. The patient will lie on their back, and the provider will use a speculum to open the vagina and visualize the cervix. They will then use a small brush or spatula to collect cells from the cervix, which are then sent to a lab for analysis.

When should I get a pap test?

It’s recommended for anyone with a cervix to start screenings at age 21, no matter when they become sexually active. How often they need to be screened and which tests they should get depend on age and health history:

• Age 21 to 29 should have a pap test every 3 years. HPV testing may be an option for women 25 to 29, but pap tests are usually preferred.
• Age 30 to 65 have three choices:
  • A pap test and HPV test together (called co-testing) every 5 years.
  • A pap test alone every 3 years.
  • An HPV test alone every 5 years.

Should men have pap tests?

There isn’t a regular test for men to check for high-risk HPV strains that can lead to cancer. However, some doctors recommend anal pap tests for gay and bisexual men since they have a higher risk of anal cancer caused by HPV. During this test, a doctor collects cells from the anus and sends them to a lab to check for any problems.

Does HPV always lead to cervical cancer?

HPV doesn’t always lead to cervical cancer. Some types of HPV may lead to an infection, which can then lead to cervical cancer. In most cases, the body’s immune system fights off the virus, and the infection clears up on its own.

However, in some women, the infection doesn’t go away. It’s called a persistent infection when it sticks around for a long time. Persistent infections with high-risk types of HPV can lead to more serious changes in cervical cells. If these changes last for 1 to 2 years without treatment, they are more likely to turn into cancer.