Protecting Lives: Cervical Cancer Awareness and Prevention
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month—a time to educate, empower, and take action to prevent this highly treatable disease. While cervical cancer is preventable through vaccination and routine screenings, disparities in access to care mean that not everyone benefits equally. At Marin City Health and Wellness Center, we’re committed to raising awareness, providing resources, and ensuring that life-saving screenings are accessible to those who otherwise lack access.
Understanding Cervical Cancer: National and Local Perspectives
In 2024, cervical cancer affected close to 14,000 people in the United States, with over 4,000 deaths each year. In California, nearly 1,400 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer annually, and in the Bay Area, we see disparities in access to preventative care. In Marin City and surrounding areas, cervical cancer rates remain a concern, particularly among underserved populations.
According to the American Cancer Society:
- More than half of new cervical cancer cases occur in individuals who have either never been screened or have been screened infrequently.
- Cervical cancer rates are significantly higher among certain racial and ethnic groups compared to Non-Hispanic White individuals: 50% higher in American Indian and Alaska Native populations, over 30% higher in Hispanic populations, and more than 22% higher in Non-Hispanic Black populations.
- Increased HPV vaccination among adolescents aged 13-17 has contributed to a steady decline in cervical cancer rates.
- Cervical cancer rates are decreasing among younger individuals who had access to the HPV vaccine, with an 11% annual decline among those aged 20-24 since 2012. However, rates are rising by 1.7% annually for those aged 30-44, a group that did not have access to the vaccine when they were younger.
Barriers to Care: How Underserved Communities Face Higher Risks
Research shows that African American women and women in underserved communities face higher rates of cervical cancer. This disparity stems from systemic issues like limited access to healthcare, financial barriers, and a lack of culturally sensitive care. Studies have found that women in these groups are less likely to receive routine screenings and HPV vaccinations, leading to later-stage diagnoses and higher mortality rates.
In 2021, cervical cancer screening rates were lower among Asian (65%), American Indian and Alaska Native (68%), and Hispanic (68%) populations, compared to Non-Hispanic White (80%) and Non-Hispanic Black (76%) populations.
Cervical cancer incidence and outcomes do vary based not only on race but economic status. African American women have the highest mortality rates from cervical cancer in the U.S., and studies confirm that socioeconomic factors, combined with historical and systemic inequities, contribute significantly to these disparities.
Screenings Save Lives: Free Resources at MCHWC
Screening and early detection are key to preventing cervical cancer. Pap smears and HPV tests can identify changes early, and HPV vaccinations can prevent the majority of cervical cancer cases.
Marin City Health and Wellness Center is committed to breaking down barriers to care by offering cervical cancer (PAP) and HPV screenings at our Women’s Health Center. These services ensure that individuals in our community have access to life-saving preventative care, regardless of income or insurance status.
Take Action Today
Cervical cancer is preventable, and early detection is critical. Schedule your free screening today by calling (415) 339-8813. Let’s reduce disparities and protect the health of everyone in our community.
About MCHWC
Marin City Health and Wellness is a community health clinic serving Marin and San Francisco Counties, providing innovative health and wellness services to all, with the goal of African American health equity.