Cervical Health Awareness Starts with You
This January is Cervical Health Awareness Month. This international effort spotlights a cancer that is not only detectable but also highly preventable. At ImageCare Radiology, we see
firsthand how consistent screening and timely imaging can change outcomes. This month is an opportunity to empower women with knowledge, encourage lifesaving habits, and remind everyone that awareness truly drives prevention.
What Exactly Is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer begins in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus. Nearly all cases are linked to high-risk types of the human papillomavirus (HPV). While that association may sound alarming, it actually brings good news: HPV is preventable, detectable, and manageable.
Why prevention is within reach:
- HPV vaccines protect against the strains responsible for the majority of cervical cancers.
- Regular screenings catch abnormal cells before they develop into cancer.
- Imaging plays an essential role in staging cancer and guiding treatment.
Quick Insight
Research shows a dramatic decline—over 60%—in cervical cancer diagnoses among young women who were most likely to have received the HPV vaccine.
Awareness Action
Post a personal reminder on social media encouraging friends to schedule their annual exam. You’ll be surprised how many people need the nudge.
What Women Can Do to Prevent Cervical Cancer
Preventing cervical cancer hinges on early action. Building a healthy cervical care routine is simpler than many think.
Core Prevention Steps
Stay Up to Date on Screening
Cervical cancer grows slowly. Therefore, routine Pap tests and HPV tests detect abnormal changes well before they become dangerous.
Current guidelines include:
- Ages 21–29: Pap test every 3 years
- Ages 30–65: Pap test every 3 years, high-risk HPV test every 5 years, or cotesting every 5 years
- Over 65: Screening may stop if you have a consistent history of normal results
Prevention Pointer
Add your next Pap test date to your digital calendar. Future-you will be grateful.
Consider HPV Vaccination
The HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9) protects against nine high-risk strains and is approved for people ages 9 through 45. Starting the series early—typically around ages 11 or 12—offers the strongest protection.
Prevention Pointer
If you’re a parent, talk openly about HPV vaccination with other parents. Clearing up misconceptions directly influences community health.
Quick Fact
Invasive cervical cancer dropped by 65% in women aged 20–24 after the HPV vaccination became more prevalent.
Prioritize Preventative Services
Preventative services, including Pap smears, HPV testing, and follow-up imaging, provide early insights that save lives. Learn more about the preventative services available at ImageCare Radiology.
Prevention Pointer
Group accountability works wonders. If you notice friends skipping routine care, invite them to join you for a “health check day.”
Where Radiology Fits In: Diagnosis, Staging, and Treatment Planning
Most people associate cervical cancer prevention with Pap tests or vaccines, but radiology plays a substantial role once abnormalities appear. At ImageCare Radiology, our specialists help clinicians understand the full picture.
How Radiology Helps:
- Ultrasound: This is often the first step when symptoms like pelvic pain or irregular bleeding occur
- MRI: An important assessment to determine the size of the tumor, the extent it has spread, and the response to treatment
- CT scans: Used to determine whether cancer has reached lymph nodes or distant organs
- PET/CT: Provides metabolic insight into cancer activity, guiding more precise treatment and follow-up
Because no single test tells the whole story, imaging complements gynecologic exams and biopsies. It ensures that care plans are custom-tailored and based on the most accurate information.
Quick Fact
MRI is one of the most reliable methods for staging cervical cancer, helping specialists decide between surgery, radiation, or combined therapies.
Awareness Action
Share educational posts from reputable organizations during Cervical Health Awareness Month:
Who Is Most at Risk?
While cervical cancer affects women of all ages, it’s most commonly diagnosed between ages 35 and 64. Women over 65 may believe they’re “in the clear,” but more than 20% of cases occur in this age group, often among those who stopped screening too early.
Quick Fact
Cervical precancers are far more common than invasive cancer, which underscores how valuable early detection truly is.
Awareness Action
Check in and encourage older relatives or loved ones to stay consistent with routine exams.
How Can You Help Raise Awareness for Cervical Cancer This Month?
You don’t need to be a medical expert to spark meaningful change. Here are simple ways to elevate cervical health awareness:
- Share graphics or statistics from NCCC’s Advocacy Toolkit
- Host a small “health night” with friends to discuss preventative care
- Encourage local organizations, schools, or workplaces to promote HPV vaccination
- Light up your porch or office teal, the color of cervical health advocacy
- Share stories of survivors and advocates to keep the conversation open and compassionate
Awareness Action
Even a single post could reach someone who hasn’t had a screening in years.
A Future without Cervical Cancer Is Possible
The World Health Organization believes cervical cancer can be eliminated with the help of vaccinationa, screeninga, and access to treatment. Furthermore, the data supports that goal. Every appointment, every conversation, and every shared resource helps move us closer.
At ImageCare Radiology, we’re committed to supporting women’s health with accessible preventative services and advanced imaging that guides accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Empowerment starts with awareness, and awareness leads to action.
If it’s been a while since your last screening, let Cervical Health Awareness Month be your reminder. Prevention is powerful, and so are you.