Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women. In 2022, about 660,000 women were diagnosed with cervical cancer worldwide, and about 350,000 women died from the disease. Cervical cancer cases are almost always (about 99% of cervical cancer cases) linked to human papillomavirus, or HPV.
About 13 million Americans, including teens, become infected with HPV each year. The majority of HPV infections (approximately 9 out of 10) resolve on their own within 2 years, but sometimes HPV infections will last longer, causing cancer.
In the U.S., HPV causes about 36,000 cases of cancer each year across all genders. Cervical cancer is one of the most well-known, but HPV can also cause other cancers that affect both men and women.
The HPV vaccine helps prevent cervical cancer caused by HPV infections.
The HPV vaccine is the primary approach to preventing cervical cancer, with cancer screening as a close second. Vaccination provides safe, effective, and lasting protection against HPV and helps prevent more than 90% of HPV-related cancers. It has also helped reduce precancerous cervical conditions in young women, with a 40% drop in cervical precancers linked to HPV.
The CDC recommends that individuals aged 11–12 receive two doses of the HPV vaccine. However, youth can receive the vaccine as early as age 9. For individuals aged 26-45 who have not started or completed the HPV vaccine series, vaccination is also recommended.
It’s essential to receive the HPV vaccine as early as possible. When received earlier rather than later, it can provide protection for your child long before they ever come in contact with the virus.
Health screenings help detect disease early, allowing for prompt and effective treatment.
Routine screenings can also help prevent cervical cancer. The goal of cervical cancer screening is to detect any cervical cell changes early and provide treatment promptly if necessary. Cervical cancer found at an early stage is typically much easier to treat.
The frequency of cervical cancer screening depends on your age and health history. The American Cancer Society recommends that routine screening by a trusted healthcare provider start at age 25 with an HPV test and be repeated every 5 years through age 65. Receiving a Pap test every 3 years is also an acceptable way to help prevent cervical cancer.
Preventing HPV and cervical cancer for yourself or your child.
Unsure where to start? We can help!
Our Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program (BCCP) offers cervical cancer screenings to women ages 21 to 64, and helps those diagnosed with precancer or cancer apply for Women’s Health Medicaid.
Our health centers also provide HPV vaccines for youth and adults, supporting HPV and cervical cancer prevention at every stage.