January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month - Get Screened Today!
- The Aafiyah Project
- Jan 13
- 2 min read
Written by Rokhaya Kane, MPH
Edited by Dr. ‘Demi Fauziyyah Adebo-Adelaja
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, a time to spotlight a cancer that is highly preventable and highly treatable when detected early, yet still takes far too many lives.
At The Aafiyah Project, we believe that health is a community responsibility. This month, we are focusing on cervical health because every woman deserves access to prevention, early detection, and quality treatment, without barriers, delays, or dismissal.
What is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer develops in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. The vast majority of cervical cancer cases are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), a very common virus that most people will be exposed to at some point in their lives. HPV often causes no symptoms, which means many individuals do not know that they have it. In many cases, the virus clears on its own. However, when HPV infections persist, they can lead to cervical cancer over time.
Routine Pap tests and HPV testing, along with practicing safer sexual health behaviors, are among the most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer. If infected, early detection and treatment options such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy are most effective.
Globally, cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women, underscoring the importance of prevention and early detection worldwide.
Cervical Cancer and Health Equity
Cervical cancer does not affect all women equally.
Women in underserved communities experience a disproportionate burden of cervical cancer. In the United States, incidence rates per 100,000 women are approximately:
7.6 among non-Hispanic Black women
9.6 among Hispanic women
10.0 among American Indian/Alaska Native women
Black women are 41% more likely to develop cervical cancer than White women and are more likely to die from the disease, even though screening rates are similar in many studies. This troubling reality points to systemic inequities, not individual behavior, as the root cause.
Why Outcomes Differ
Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital highlights key barriers that disproportionately affect Black women and other underserved populations:
Delayed diagnosis
Limited access to consistent screening
Barriers to follow-up care after abnormal results (transportation, childcare, insurance gaps)
Less aggressive or delayed treatment plans
Dismissal of pain, symptoms, or concerns
Reduced access to timely, high-quality cancer care
These are avoidable disparities, and addressing them requires intentional investment, advocacy, and accountability within our healthcare systems.
Our Call-To-Action
Even when systems fall short, we are not powerless!
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers thanks to:
HPV vaccination (primary prevention)
Routine screening (Pap and HPV tests)
Effective early treatment when abnormalities are detected
Cervical cancer should not be taking the lives of women, especially when prevention is within reach.
By staying informed, prioritizing routine screenings, and advocating for equitable access to care, we can close the gap and protect Black women and other underserved communities.
Prevention is power!
At The Aafiyah Project, we remain committed to empowering our community with education, resources, and advocacy so women can take control of their health, today and for generations to come.
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