Cervical Cancer Awareness & Prevention: What Every Woman Should Know

Cervical Cancer Awareness: Knowledge, Screening, and the Power of Early Action

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers—yet thousands of women are diagnosed every year. In fact, more than 13,800 new cases of invasive cervical cancer were diagnosed in the U.S. in 2024, most commonly in women between the ages of 35 and 44. The good news? When caught early, cervical cancer is highly treatable, and prevention tools are more accessible than many people realize.

That’s why education, awareness, and routine screening matter so much.

What Is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer develops when abnormal cells grow in the cervix—the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Not all abnormal cell changes become cancer, but some precancerous changes can progress if they’re not identified early. These changes are often detected through Pap tests and HPV tests, which is why routine screening is one of the most powerful tools we have.

Understanding HPV and Risk Factors
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most significant risk factor for cervical cancer. HPV is extremely common—about 80% of sexually active women will have at least one type of HPV in their lifetime. While most HPV infections clear on their own, certain high-risk strains (particularly HPV 16 and 18) are responsible for roughly 70% of cervical cancer cases.

Other risk factors include:

• Smoking
• A weakened immune system
• Certain sexually transmitted infections
• Long-term use of oral contraceptives
• Family history
• Limited access to regular screening

Understanding these risks isn’t meant to create fear—it’s meant to empower informed choices and proactive care.

Screening Saves Lives
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends:

• Ages 21–29: Pap test every three years
• Ages 30–65: Pap test every three years or Pap + HPV test every five years
• Over 65: Screening decisions made with your provider

These screenings can detect precancerous changes long before cancer develops—often before symptoms ever appear.

Know the Symptoms

• Cervical cancer doesn’t always cause symptoms in its early stages, but possible warning signs can include:
• Unusual vaginal bleeding
• Changes in menstrual cycles
• Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse
• Malodorous or bloody vaginal discharge

If something feels off, trust your body and talk to your provider.

Prevention Is Powerful
Cervical cancer rates have declined significantly due to increased screening and HPV vaccination. Prevention strategies include:

• Routine Pap and HPV testing
• HPV vaccination (when appropriate)
• Practicing safe sex
• Avoiding smoking

Small, consistent actions can have a life-saving impact.

Download the Cervical Cancer Tip Sheet

We created our Cervical Cancer Tip Sheet to make this information easy to understand, easy to share, and easy to act on. Whether you’re looking to educate yourself, support a loved one, or bring awareness into your workplace or community, this resource breaks down:

• What cervical cancer is
• Risk factors and symptoms
• Screening guidelines
• HPV facts
• Prevention strategies

Knowledge is power, and in this case, it can truly save lives.

👉 Download the Cervical Cancer Tip Sheet today and take one meaningful step toward informed, proactive health.