Cervical Cancer Is Preventable. How You Can Protect Yourself and Your Family

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, a great time of year to talk with your provider about human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and cervical cancer screening tests (Pap and HPV tests).

Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers that can be prevented. That is because screening tests can find pre-cancerous cells and then a health care provider can remove these cells before they turn into cancer. Screening is recommended for folks with a cervix between ages 21 and 65. Most people with a cervix should get cervical cancer screening every three to five years, but folks who have had an abnormal result will likely get screened more often. Talk with your health care provider to determine when you are next due for cervical cancer screening.

If you or someone you know has avoided getting screened for cervical cancer, please consider connecting them to the You First program. You First can pay for Pap and HPV tests for eligible Vermonters. You First can even cover a test that has already happened, up to 90 days before joining the program. Plus, if cancer is found, You First can help most members enroll in a special insurance program that covers cervical cancer treatment.

Almost all cases of cervical cancer are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a very common virus that can lead to multiple types of cancer. The HPV vaccine can prevent cancer. This vaccine is available for people aged 9-45 of all genders, and it is recommended that children have this vaccine at ages 11-12. Talk with your health care provider about this vaccine for yourself or the children in your life.

While cervical cancer is preventable, there are still people dying from it each year. In the U.S., cervical cancer rates are highest among Hispanic and Native American people, while death rates are highest among Black people. Focusing on cervical cancer screening and HPV vaccination is an important priority for Vermont’s You First program. You First supports Vermonters who have barriers to accessing care, including lack of insurance, high out-of-pocket costs, transportation, and knowledge about the importance of these screening tests.

Starting at age 21, most people who have a cervix should get a Pap test every three years, if the last test result was normal. Starting at age 30, most people who have a cervix can get a Pap and HPV co-test every five years, if the last test result was normal.

Most people can stop getting screened for cervical cancer at age 65, after they have had a conversation with their health care provider.

Not sure if you are due for a cervical cancer screening? Reach out to your health care provider to ask them about cancer screenings.

Unable to afford a Pap test? Vermont’s You First program may be able to help! Income-eligible Vermont residents can get free Pap and HPV tests and follow up tests. Call 1-800-508-2222. Learn more about You First at YouFirstVT.org.