January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, a critical time to emphasize the importance of prevention, early detection, and timely follow-up. Most cervical cancers are preventable through routine screening and HPV vaccination. Regular screening allows precancerous changes to be identified and treated before cancer develops, while HPV vaccination protects against the virus responsible for nearly all cervical cancers, making these services essential components of preventive care.
Over the past four decades, cervical cancer deaths in the U.S. have declined by more than 50%, largely due to screening. According to the American Cancer Society , an estimated 14,100 new cervical cancer cases and 4,280 deaths are expected in the United States in 2026. Despite progress, disparities persist, particularly among individuals with limited access to preventive care, highlighting the essential role of community health centers in improving access and outcomes.
Cervical Cancer Screening Recommendations 2026
American Cancer Society (ACS) & U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)
Recommendations apply to people with a cervix at average risk.
| Age Group | Recommended Screening |
| Under 21 | No screening |
| Ages 21-24 | ACS recommends no screening USPSTF: Pap (cytology) every 3 years |
| Ages 25 – 29 | Preferred: HPV – based screening when available ACS acceptable: Pap every 3 years |
| Ages 30 – 65 | ACS preferred: Primary HPV every 5 years ACS acceptable: Co-test every 5 years or Pap every 3 years USPSTF: HPV every 5 years or co-test every 5 years or Pap every 3 years |
| Over 65 | Stop if adequately screened and not high risk |
| Post-Hysterectomy | Discontinue if for benign reason |
| After HPV vaccination | Follow age-appropriate recommendations (same as unvaccinated individuals) |
Emerging Screening Option: HPV Self-Collection
HPV self-collection is gaining attention as a strategy to increase screening participation, particularly for individuals who face barriers to traditional pelvic exams. The American Cancer Society and the World Health Organization recognize HPV self-collection as an acceptable option in clinical settings when clinician-collected screening is not feasible.
As guidelines increasingly emphasize HPV-based screening, health centers are uniquely positioned to implement patient-centered strategies that improve access, follow-up, and outcomes in cervical cancer prevention. Across our network, health centers are testing and refining approaches to increase screening rates and close gaps in care.
Additional Resources
- Cancer Information for Health Care Professionals | American Cancer Society
- https://www.ashasexualhealth.org/cervical-health-awareness-month-toolkit/
- https://www.aacr.org/patients-caregivers/awareness-months/cervical-cancer-awareness-month/
- Cervical Cancer Screening with the HPV self-collection Test
- NRTCC self-collection Communication Guide
