Pap tests, HPV vaccines, and cervical screenings for women
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, and as the new year begins, Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia is encouraging women to prioritize their well-being.
“This January, I want to remind all women to make their health a priority,” said Dr. Angela Jain, Chief of Gynecologic Medical Oncology and Clinical Director of the Gynecologic Oncology & Well-Women’s Health Program at Fox Chase Cancer Center. “January is a time for fresh starts and making your health a focus should be part of that.”
With a heightened focus on cervical care, Fox Chase Cancer Center is emphasizing the importance of routine screenings, proactive prevention, and access to innovative treatments.
Regular Pap tests and HPV screenings have reduced cervical cancer rates by at least 80%, according to the National Cancer Institute. However, Dr. Jain has noticed that some women are not prioritizing these crucial screenings.
“On one side, there are young women — late teens to early twenties — who are sexually active but haven’t yet seen a gynecologist. On the other, postmenopausal women stop going to the gynecologist, assuming they no longer need care,” she said.
These gaps often result in missed opportunities for early detection and prevention. Dr. Jain underscores that regular gynecological visits are essential throughout a woman’s life, stressing that cervical wellness should remain a lifelong commitment.
Clinical trials: Transforming lives
If a patient under the care of Fox Chase Cancer Center is diagnosed with cervical cancer, they can expect state-of-the-art treatment delivered with compassion. “I help oversee clinical trials in breast and GYN oncology to ensure we’re offering the best options to patients,” said Dr. Jain.
One promising trial focuses on reducing radiation exposure for certain cervical cancer cases through adaptive radiation technology. “By honing in on the tumor and minimizing radiation to surrounding tissue, we can reduce long-term side effects,” she said.
Fox Chase Cancer Center adopts a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, with a team of oncologists, nutritionists, physical therapists, social workers, and psychologists working together to support patients physically, emotionally, and mentally.
The impact of this approach is evident in patient stories like that of a woman with metastatic cervical cancer who had exhausted standard treatments.
“After meeting with her, I was able to offer a phase one clinical trial she could participate in,” said Dr. Jain.
Two years later, the drug that was tested in the clinical trial — Tisotumab vedotin, also known as Tivdak — was FDA-approved. “Not only did the drug help her live longer, but I got to tell her that her participation directly contributed to a new treatment for cervical cancer, something that hadn’t happened in years and that will benefit future patients,” she said.
HPV vaccination: A powerful tool
While advancements like Tivdak offer new hope for those diagnosed, the ultimate goal is to prevent cervical cancer before it develops. At the forefront of this effort is the HPV vaccine, which targets the human papillomavirus, the leading cause of cervical cancer, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Pediatricians recommend starting the vaccine as early as age nine, a timing Dr. Jain says is critical for its effectiveness.
“It’s understandable that parents might feel hesitant because it implies their child will one day be sexually active,” said Dr. Jain. “But the vaccine is most effective when given early, before any exposure to HPV.”
For those who missed early vaccination, it’s not too late. “Evidence continues to show the vaccine’s ability to protect against cervical cancer — even when administered later in life,” she said. Vaccination works best in tandem with regular screenings like Pap smears and HPV tests, both of which play a crucial role in early detection. Regular gynecologist visits are key to long-term health, Dr. Jain says, encouraging women to make these appointments a routine part of their healthcare.
Mobile health units: Improving access
Although prevention is critical, barriers to care often hinder women from receiving essential screenings and vaccinations. In underserved communities across Philadelphia, these challenges are particularly pronounced. Financial limitations, lack of transportation, and insufficient awareness of available resources all contribute to delayed care.
“We must address these barriers to ensure equitable access to healthcare,” said Dr. Jain. “This means creating affordable options and meeting patients where they are.”
Fox Chase Cancer Center is tackling these challenges with initiatives like mobile health units, which bring screenings directly to communities. “Our mobile mammogram unit makes it easier for women to access care without needing to travel far,” said Dr. Jain.
By expanding access to screenings and HPV vaccinations, Fox Chase Cancer Center is empowering women with the tools and knowledge to prioritize their health. Through these efforts, they are addressing disparities and ensuring that all women, regardless of background, have the opportunity to safeguard their well-being.
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. Regular gynecological visits are recommended for all women. For more information about cervical cancer screenings and services, visit Fox Chase Cancer Center.