February is Cancer Prevention Month, a time to reflect on the importance of health and wellness in our lives. For the Black community, this month is a reminder to take proactive steps toward understanding and managing our health, particularly when it comes to the prevention of cervical cancer. At Upspoken, we are all about supporting each other in our journeys toward better health, supportive relationships and empowered sexuality. In honor of Cancer Prevention Month, let’s take a moment to talk about cervical cancer, how we can prevent it and why it matters so much.
What is Cervical Cancer and Why is It Important?
Cervical cancer begins in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina.
It often develops slowly over time and, in its earliest stages, might not show many symptoms. The good news is that cervical cancer is largely preventable. Thanks to advances in medical science, we know that most cervical cancers are caused by persistent infections from high-risk types of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). These infections are common, but most people’s bodies can clear them naturally. However, when the infection doesn’t go away, it can lead to changes in the cells of the cervix, which over time may develop into cancer.
For Black people, who experience higher rates of cervical cancer compared to women and those of other racial and ethnic groups, prevention is crucial. Regular screenings, vaccinations and an understanding our bodies’ needs can make all the difference.
Understanding Prevention: Screening and Vaccination
Cervical cancer is unique in that it’s one of the few cancers that can be detected early through regular screenings and completely prevented through vaccination. The Pap smear (or Pap test) and HPV test are key tools for identifying abnormal cells on the cervix before they develop into cancer.
Here’s how we can take control:
- Regular Pap Smears: It’s important to begin cervical cancer screenings at age 21, regardless of sexual activity. These screenings check for abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix that could indicate cancer or precancerous conditions. Black women are often diagnosed at later stages, so regular screenings are essential in catching problems early.
- HPV Vaccination: The HPV vaccine can prevent the most common types of HPV that cause cervical cancer. It’s recommended for both girls and boys around ages 11-12, but women can receive the vaccine up to age 26 (and even later if recommended by a healthcare provider).
- HPV test – Beginning at age 30, it’s recommended to have an HPV test every 5 years, or you can continue with just a Pap smear every 3 years.
- Know Your Body: Pay attention to your body’s signals. Unusual bleeding, pain during sex or abnormal discharge are reasons to visit your doctor. While these symptoms aren’t always linked to cancer, it’s always better to check.
Self-Care, Empowerment and Building a Supportive Community
As Black people, we often carry the weight of cultural, systemic and personal pressures that can affect how we take care of ourselves. But self-care is not just about bubble baths and spa days; it’s about taking ownership of our health—mentally, emotionally and physically. At Upspoken, we know the power of community. It’s about building each other up and making sure we’re supporting our sisters, friends and family members when it comes to our health.
Let’s Support Each Other in Our Health Journeys
We’ve often been told to (or made to feel like we must) push through the pain, neglect our own needs and carry the weight of the world on our shoulders. But this Cancer Prevention Month and beyond, let’s shift the narrative. Let’s make our health a priority, share the knowledge we have and encourage the those in our lives to get screened, vaccinated and take control of their cervical health.
This isn’t just about cancer prevention; it’s about empowerment, self-love and owning our bodies. Let’s continue to lean into each other’s knowledge, learn from each other’s vulnerabilities and build a community that empowers us to be the best versions of ourselves.
If you haven’t had your screening or vaccination yet, now is the time to take that step for yourself. Your body, your health, your life—own it.
Sources:
https://www.ajpmonline.org/article/S0749-3797(23)00202-7/fulltext
www.cancer.gov