January is a pivotal month for women’s health, spotlighting Cervical Cancer Awareness Month and HPV Prevention Week—an opportunity to amplify education, prevention, and early detection of cervical cancer. Each year, more than 14,000 people are diagnosed with cervical cancer in the United States* and globally, approximately 350,000 people die from the disease***. This underscores the urgent need for heightened awareness and proactive action.

Understanding the Risks and Prevention Strategies
Cervical cancer is often linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus responsible for most cases of the disease. Prevention begins with a combination of HPV vaccination, regular screenings like Pap smears and HPV testing, and timely treatment. Early detection of cervical cancer is critical. When diagnosed at an early stage, the five-year survival rate exceeds 90%**.

Bisi Alli, DO, MS, dipABLM, FACP, FAMWA; LSSBB and Co-Chair of Us vs. HPV, emphasizes: “To save more lives, every woman deserves the opportunity for early detection and prevention of cervical cancer. Expanding access to testing is essential for achieving this goal.”

Innovations Making a Difference
This year, advancements in HPV testing have paved the way for increased accessibility. The FDA recently approved self-collection HPV tests in healthcare settings, addressing barriers such as cost, time, and discomfort with traditional testing.

Dr. Vikrant Sahasrabuddhe, MBBS, DrPH, from the National Cancer Institute, underscores the significance of this milestone:
“The approval of self-collection HPV tests is a major step forward in improving access to screening, particularly for women facing challenges in traditional healthcare settings.”

These innovations, along with equitable healthcare, are crucial for reducing disparities and expanding lifesaving care worldwide.

Join the Movement: The Us vs. HPV Global Webinar Series

The American Medical Women’s Association (AMWA) is dedicated to empowering communities through education and accessibility initiatives. As part of these efforts, AMWA and the Global Initiative Against HPV and Cervical Cancer (GIAHC) will host the Seventh Annual Us vs. HPV Global Webinar Series from January 27–31, 2025:

  • Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 12–1 PM EST
  • Wednesday: 10 AM–12:30 PM EST

This free virtual series offers cutting-edge insights into HPV-related cancers, including cervical, anal, and head and neck cancers. Mark your calendars and learn how you can help make a difference.

Take Action Today
Protect your health and the health of your loved ones by staying informed.

  • Speak with your healthcare professional about HPV vaccination, regular screenings, and early treatment options.
  • Encourage conversations about cervical cancer prevention in your community.

Together, we can reduce the burden of cervical cancer, promote early detection, and save lives. Visit HPV Cervical Cancer Prevention – American Medical Women’s Association for more.

 

Article By:

Bisi Alli, DO, MS, dipABLM, FACP, FAMWA

LEAN Six Sigma Black Belt

Principal, WellNEST Medicine LLC

Associate Clinical Professor, Creighton University School of Medicine

Board of Directors, American Medical Women’s Association (AMWA)

HEAL Scholar & Payer Strategy Subcommittee Member, American College of Lifestyle Medicine

Faculty, ACP Advance Coaching Services & Member, Professional Development and Fulfillment Committee, American College of Physicians (ACP)

~

*American Cancer Society. Cancer Facts & Figures, 2025.

**American Cancer Society, Cervical Cancer Survival Rates, latest update at www.cancer.org

***https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cervical-cancer