Cervical cancer is preventable: Why screening and the HPV vaccine matter
More than 98% of cervical cancer cases are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a group of more than 200 related viruses that affect men and women. When exposed to HPV, the body’s immune system typically prevents the virus from doing harm, however, in a small percentage of people, the virus survives for years. In women this contributes to the process that causes some cervical cells to become cancerous. We understand the cause of cervical cancer well, and have developed tests, treatments and a vaccine, which combined make the disease almost completely preventable.
“When somebody comes in with an invasive cervical cancer it is almost always because they have missed regular screenings or did not have an HPV vaccine,” said Nicoara.
Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers with a known path for prevention.
“If you prevent HPV infection you essentially can’t get the cancer,” said Nicoara.
For those between the ages of 9 and 26, the best way to prevent the infection is with the HPV vaccine. The HPV vaccine has been available in the U.S. since 2006 and a study, published in 2024, found it is up to 95% effective in preventing HPV infections which can lead to cervical cancer.
The risk of developing cervical cancer can also be reduced by:
• Regular Pap tests
• Regular HPV tests
“The Pap smear is one of the most effective screening methods that we have for a specific cancer,” said Dr. Daniel Nicoara, an OB/GYN Physician at Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic.
The Pap and HPV tests look for precancers and abnormal cells on the cervix that may develop into cervical cancer if not treated appropriately. Early detection is key to survival, and most cervical cancers are found in women who have never had a test, or it had been a while since their last test.
“When I have a patient that’s diagnosed with cervical cancer, it’s one of the most heartbreaking diagnoses that I make in clinic or for a patient,” said Nicoara. “The heartbreaking part is knowing that this could have been prevented. In today’s healthcare system, with the abilities that we have, we should never have a case of invasive cervical cancer.”
Don’t wait to take charge of your health. Schedule your Pap or HPV test and make sure you and your loved ones are protected with the HPV vaccine. With simple, routine steps, cervical cancer is almost entirely preventable. Talk to your provider, book your appointment, and help stop cervical cancer before it starts.
