January 13, 2025
Cervical Cancer Awareness: What You Need to Know
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about a highly preventable yet potentially life-altering disease. As a survivor of Triple Negative Breast Cancer with both BRCA2 and PMS2 gene mutations, I’ve experienced firsthand the importance of early detection, preventative care, and understanding genetic risk factors. My journey has been one of vigilance and advocacy, and it’s my hope that sharing this information will empower others to take charge of their health.
What is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer develops when abnormal cells in the cervix grow uncontrollably. This cancer is most commonly caused by persistent infections of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection. If these abnormal cells are not detected and treated, they can eventually become cancerous.
Source: American Cancer Society – What Is Cervical Cancer?
How Would You Know If You Have Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer is often called a “silent killer” because it’s frequently asymptomatic in its early stages. I know how frightening it can be to face an invisible threat, which is why regular screenings have become an essential part of my healthcare routine. Early detection saves lives—it saved mine.
Symptoms that may appear in later stages include:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding (between periods, after intercourse, or post-menopause)
- Unusual vaginal discharge (which may have a foul odor or appear bloody)
- Pain during intercourse
- Pelvic pain or discomfort
If you experience these symptoms, please consult your healthcare provider immediately.
Source: CDC – Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
The Role of HPV and Vaccination
Before my diagnosis of breast cancer, I thought HPV was “someone else’s problem.” But through my journey, I’ve learned how HPV impacts so many lives—including mine as a carrier of the PMS2 gene mutation.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of over 200 viruses. Some are harmless, but others are high-risk types that can lead to cervical, anal, throat, penile, and other cancers.
How HPV Spreads: Through intimate skin-to-skin contact, most commonly during vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
HPV Vaccination: Vaccines like Gardasil 9 protect against the most common cancer-causing HPV strains. Vaccination is recommended starting at age 9 and is most effective before exposure to the virus.
Taking preventative steps—like getting vaccinated, screened regularly, and practicing safe sexual behaviors—can significantly reduce HPV-related cancer risks.
Sources
World Health Organization – Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
What is Lynch Syndrome? A Personal Connection
When I learned I carried the PMS2 gene mutation, part of Lynch syndrome, it felt like my world shifted. Lynch syndrome is a genetic condition that increases the risk of several cancers, including colorectal, endometrial, ovarian, and cervical cancers. It’s caused by mutations in genes responsible for repairing damaged DNA, like PMS2.
For me, this mutation isn’t just a statistic—it’s part of who I am and how I navigate my health. Genetic testing opened the door to preventative care that has been essential in my journey.
Lynch Syndrome and Cervical Cancer: While cervical cancer is primarily linked to HPV, individuals with Lynch syndrome face a higher risk of multiple cancers. For PMS2 carriers like myself, extra vigilance is required.
My Lynch syndrome diagnosis is a reminder that knowledge is power. If you have a family history of cancer, genetic testing could guide you toward lifesaving early detection strategies.
Sources
Lynch Syndrome International – What Is Lynch Syndrome?
CDC – About Hereditary Cancer Syndromes
Who is Most Impacted by Cervical Cancer?
As a Black woman, I’m deeply aware of the disparities that affect communities of color. Cervical cancer disproportionately impacts women like me, as well as others in low-income areas.
National Impact: Black women are 1.5 times more likely to die from cervical cancer than white women. Limited access to healthcare, screenings, and vaccinations contribute to this gap.
Global Perspective: Worldwide, cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women, with over 604,000 new cases and 342,000 deaths annually (2020 data).
Men and HPV: Men are not immune to HPV’s effects. As carriers, they can spread the virus and are at risk of cancers caused by HPV, such as throat and anal cancers.
These statistics are sobering, but they drive my mission to break barriers to care.
Sources
CDC – Cervical Cancer Statistics
World Health Organization – Cervical Cancer Key Facts
How to Stay Proactive: Preventing Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. Here’s how you can incorporate prevention into your routine:
Routine Screening
Schedule regular Pap smears and HPV tests to detect any precancerous changes early
Screening guidelines recommend starting at age 21
HPV Vaccination
Vaccination protects against high-risk HPV strains and is a powerful tool for prevention
Safe Practices
Limiting exposure to HPV through safe sexual practices is key
Healthy Living
Quitting smoking and focusing on overall wellness strengthens the immune system
Following these steps will prove pivotal in positive outcomes, and I encourage you to discuss your options with a healthcare provider.
Source
American Cancer Society – Cervical Cancer Prevention and Early Detection
Resources for Cervical Cancer, Lynch Syndrome, and HPV Support
Local Resources
Ohio Department of Health – Breast and Cervical Cancer Project (BCCP)
Provides free or low-cost Pap smears, HPV tests, and genetic counseling for eligible women.
Website: bccp.odh.ohio.gov
Phone: 1-844-430-2227
National Resources
American Cancer Society
Offers information on cervical cancer and genetic risks, including Lynch syndrome.
Website: www.cancer.org
Helpline: 1-800-227-2345
Lynch Syndrome International
Provides support, resources, and education for those with Lynch syndrome
Website: lynchcancers.com
Email: info@lynchcancers.com
National Cervical Cancer Coalition (NCCC)
Supports education, HPV prevention, and cervical cancer survivors
Website: www.nccc-online.org
Helpline: 1-800-685-5531
Worldwide Resources
World Health Organization (WHO)
Provides global guidelines for cervical cancer prevention and HPV vaccination
Website: www.who.int
Global Initiative Against HPV and Cervical Cancer (GIAHC)
Advocates for global equity in cervical cancer care and prevention
Website: www.giahc.org
For me, this is personal. My journey with genetic mutations, early detection, and preventative care has shaped how I approach life—and advocacy. Cervical cancer is preventable, but only if we’re empowered with knowledge and access to resources. Together, we can reduce disparities, save lives, and change the future of cancer care.
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