By Dana Cleason, M.D., FACOG 

OB/GYN Buffalo Medical Group 

January marks Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, a time to emphasize prevention, early detection, and treatment strategies for one of the most preventable cancers. Despite advances in screening and vaccination, cervical cancer remains the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide, with hundreds of thousands of new cases annually.
 

Recognizing Signs and Symptoms

Cervical cancer often develops silently in its early stages. When any of these symptoms do appear, they warrant prompt medical evaluation. 

  • Unusual vaginal bleeding (after intercourse, between periods, or post-menopause) 
  • Abnormal or foul-smelling discharge 
  • Persistent pelvic pain or pressure  

Clinical Testing and Screening Recommendations

Routine screening is essential for early detection. Current guidelines recommend: 

  • Ages 21–29: Pap smear every three years 
  • Ages 30–65: Pap smear every three years, or HPV test every five years, or co-testing (Pap + HPV) every five years 
  • After 65: Screening may be discontinued if prior results have been consistently normal. 
  • Testing should be performed in certified laboratories using standardized terminology. Common methods include cytology (Pap smear), liquid-based cytology, and high-risk HPV DNA or RNA testing. 

Prevention Strategies

  • The cornerstone of prevention is HPV vaccination, ideally administered at ages 11–12, with catch-up options covered by most insurance companies up to age 45. 
  • Call your medical provider to discuss your options. Combined vaccination and screening align with global initiatives to eliminate cervical cancer.  

Treatment Options Depend on Disease Stage

  • Early-stage: Surgical intervention (such as hysterectomy) and/or radiation therapy 
  • Locally advanced: Radiation combined with chemotherapy 
  • Metastatic or persistent disease: Systemic chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and palliative care in resource-limited settings 
  • High-grade precancerous lesions: Excisional procedures such as the Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) or cold knife cone

Why Awareness Matters

There were approximately 660,000 new cases of cervical cancer and 350,000 deaths from the disease globally in 2022, disproportionately affecting low- and middle-income countries. Awareness campaigns encourage vaccination, screening, and timely treatment—critical steps toward the WHO’s goal of eliminating cervical cancer as a public health threat.
 

January is more than just a month of awareness—it’s a call to action. By focusing on education, prevention, and access to care, we can lower cervical cancer rates and save lives. The Buffalo Medical Group, OB/GYN team is accepting new patients. To schedule an appointment, call 716-630-1150. To learn more, visit BuffaloMedicalGroup.com.