It’s Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, and while rates overall have declined significantly over the last few decades, Black women remain 41% more likely to develop the disease then white women, and are 75% more likely to die from it. Read on as we explore why this disparity exists, how prevention and early detection can play a role in your health, and why being proactive is vital.
According to Margaret Brown, DHA, RN, Senior Director of Care Management for Priority Health, the remarkable overall decline in cervical cancer rates can be attributed to advances in prevention and early detection.
“The introduction of the HPV vaccine has played a significant role by protecting against the types of human papillomavirus most likely to cause cervical cancer,” Brown said. “Routine cervical cancer screenings, like Pap tests and HPV testing, have also helped catch changes early. Increased awareness about women’s health means more people are staying on top of their wellness visits.”
However, the contrast seen in the rates of cervical cancer in Black women remain. Brown agrees this is an important and ongoing concern, exploring potential reasons for the disparity.
“Black women are more likely to face barriers to timely screening and follow-up care, often due to factors like limited access to care, economic challenges or a lack of medical information,” Brown explained. “Disparities mean cervical cancer is often diagnosed at a later stage. Addressing these challenges requires better access to preventive care, building trust, and ensuring all women receive the information and support they need.”
Prevention plays a massively critical role in improved outcomes related to cervical cancer.
“The most effective way to prevent cervical cancer is through a combination of HPV vaccination and regular screenings,” Brown said. “The HPV vaccine is safe and highly effective at preventing the strains of HPV most responsible for cervical cancer, and it’s recommended for preteens, teens and even some adults. Pap tests and HPV testing can catch abnormal cells early, long before they turn into cancer, allowing for simple treatments.”
Early detection is also key.
“Regular Pap tests look for changes in cervical cells, while HPV tests check for high-risk types of the virus,” Brown shared. “These tests can find problems even before symptoms appear, making it possible to treat them early and prevent cancer from developing. Most cases of cervical cancer grow slowly, so staying up to date with screenings gives women the best chance for effective, minimally invasive treatment.”
You should always talk with your health care provider about when and how often you should be screened. Current best practices and standards, as shared by Brown, are as follows:
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Women should start getting Pap tests at age 21. If your test result is normal, your doctor may tell you can wait three years until your next test.
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If you’re between the ages of 30 to 65 years old, you will have the option to get both a Pap test and an HPV test. If results are normal, your provider will likely recommend your next screening in five years.
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If you are older than 65 years, your doctor may tell you that you don’t need to be screened anymore if you haven’t had a cervical precancer in the past, you had your cervix removed as part of a hysterectomy for non-cancerous reasons, or you’ve had at least three screenings in the past 10 years and the tests were normal.
“Every woman’s risk is shaped by factors like age, immune system health, sexual history and whether they’ve had the HPV vaccine,” Brown said. “If you’re unsure about your risk, ask your doctor for guidance—that’s what they’re here for! Share your health history openly and ask questions about what screenings and vaccines are right for you. Your provider can help you create a personalized plan for prevention. Remember, regular check-ups and honest conversations are the best ways to take charge of your health.”
The best thing you can do for your health? Stay proactive.
Brown encourages women to schedule their regular check-ups and to further encourage the women in their life to do the same.
“Empower yourself with information, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your health care provider with questions or concerns,” Brown reminded. “If you’re eligible for the HPV vaccine or due for a screening, make it a priority. Community support and open conversations can help close the gap in cervical cancer disparities, too.
“Together, we can make cervical cancer an even rarer diagnosis for future generations.”
Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for West Michigan Woman.
