Cases of cervical cancer among older people are rising globally as research finds those over 65 are more likely to have HPV infections than younger people.
Dr. E, in her mid-60s, enjoying her beloved Bianchi bike along the Spokane River!
As cervical cancer prevention researchers we were pleased to see this information published yesterday! But it is also infuriating that insurance companies and many global health entities have suggested over the past decade that women no longer needed cervical cancer screening in the last ONE THIRD of their lives.
Adult women who have active and full lives were deemed expendable by insurance companies and their "task forces".There is so much bad information about HPV and cervical cancer in the US, it feels like an uphill battle some days. Meanwhile, our research remains one of the very FEW NIH-funded cervical cancer prevention approaches that can be used by everyone, whether or not they are vaccinated for HPV.
Typically, information like this takes years to cycle down to many physicians in practice, so you need to know that being screened for cervical cancer is quick and easy and should have no shame – whatever your age.
HPV is almost everywhere in our society, and tying it to sexual stereotypes and relationship status causes harm and even death. Studies have shown this virus in river water and on clinic surfaces. Let's destigmatize this virus, and this cancer and the screening for it.
Sadly, cervical cancer rates in the US are increasing at "staggering" rates according to new studies, especially in at-risk demographics, including women service members, rural white women, and many groups of people of color. Together, we can help people understand their risks and prevention strategies.