The preventable cancer that still affects women today

Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers that doctors say can often be prevented entirely. Yet each year, women are still diagnosed with advanced disease, often after years without screening or missed follow-up care.

According to Loma Linda University Cancer Center, prevention hinges on two critical tools: vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV) and routine cervical cancer screening.

“HPV is incredibly common, and most people will be exposed to it at some point in their lives,” says Yevgeniya Ioffe, MD, gynecologic oncologist at Loma Linda University Cancer Center. “In most cases, the immune system clears the virus on its own. But when it doesn’t, that’s when cervical precancer and cancer can develop.”

Prevention starts early but screening still matters

HPV causes most cervical cancers, making vaccination a powerful preventive tool. The vaccine is most effective when given before exposure to the virus, typically during late childhood or early adolescence. However, vaccination alone is not enough.

“HPV vaccination does not replace screening,” says Ioffe. “The two work together. One does not eliminate the need for the other.”

In recent years, cervical cancer screening has shifted away from annual Pap smears toward HPV-based testing for women over 30. If abnormal results are found, follow-up testing can detect precancerous changes, which are often treated with a minor outpatient procedure.

“Treating precancer is far less invasive than treating cancer,” Ioffe says. “That’s why screening is so powerful.”

Symptoms often appear late

Early cervical cancer may cause few or no symptoms, making routine screening especially important. Warning signs can include abnormal vaginal bleeding, bleeding after intercourse, unusual discharge, pelvic pressure, or pain, which are symptoms that are sometimes dismissed or mistaken for other conditions.

“You can’t rely on symptoms alone,” Ioffe explains. “Screening is what allows us to catch disease early.” 

How cervical cancer is treated today

Treatment for cervical cancer depends on how advanced the cancer is at diagnosis. Early-stage cervical cancer may be treated with surgery alone, while more advanced disease often requires a combination of radiation and chemotherapy.

Advances in radiation technology and newer systemic therapies have improved outcomes and quality of life for patients with advanced or recurrent diseases.

“Progress in cervical cancer care has been incremental but meaningful,” she says. “We now have better tools to control disease and reduce long-term side effects.”

At Loma Linda University Health, cervical cancer care is delivered through a coordinated, multidisciplinary team that addresses both medical and social barriers to treatment.

“Our patients often face challenges beyond the diagnosis itself,” Ioffe says. “We work closely with radiation oncologists, social workers, and support services to help patients  complete treatment and achieve the best possible outcomes.”

That includes addressing psychosocial factors that can interfere with care, such as transportation challenges, mental health needs, or substance use disorders.

“Making sure patients don’t fall through the cracks is a critical part of their care,” says Ioffe.

A message for women

For women concerned about cervical cancer, Ioffe emphasizes one clear takeaway: prevention works but only when paired with screening.

Women are encouraged to attend regular well-woman visits, ask about their screening schedule, and stay up to date — even if Pap smears are no longer needed every year.

“Advocating for your health and staying connected to care can truly save lives,” Ioffe says.

Talk to your healthcare provider about your cervical cancer screening schedule and whether the HPV vaccine is right for you or your child. Staying up to date on prevention and screening can help detect changes early before cancer develops. For advice or to make an appointment, visit Loma Linda University Health obstretics and gynocology services.