Mega Doctor News
Newswise – Each year in the United States, an estimated 13,360 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer, and about 4,320 women die from the disease. Although cervical cancer rates have steadily declined thanks to screening and vaccination, January’s Cervical Health Awareness Month underscores the continued need for proactive care.
Cervical cancer is most commonly diagnosed between ages 35 and 64, with the average age around 50. Despite strong evidence supporting screening, more than half of new cases occur in individuals who have never been screened or are rarely screened.
The Role of HPV Vaccination
Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by persistent infection with high-risk strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). The HPV vaccine, recommended for preteens but approved for adults up to age 45, remains the most effective tool for preventing HPV-related cancers.
“While most HPV infections clear naturally, certain high-risk strains can progress to cancer. Vaccination offers powerful first-line protection,” says Dr. Ruth Stephenson, gynecologic oncologist at Rutgers Cancer Institute and RWJBarnabas Health.
According to the CDC, HPV is linked to over 47,000 cancer cases each year in the U.S.
Advancements in Screening Methods
The two tests used to prevent or detect cervical cancer early are the Pap test and the HPV test. The Pap test looks for precancerous cell changes on the cervix, while the HPV test checks for the virus that can cause those changes. Both tests are done in a doctor’s office or clinic.
Ages 21–29 You should begin receiving Pap tests at age 21. If your Pap test result is normal, your doctor may recommend waiting three years until your next test.
Ages 30–65 Talk with your doctor about which screening option is best for you. Options include:
- HPV test only (primary HPV testing): If normal, you may be able to wait five years for your next screening.
- Co-testing (HPV test + Pap test): If both results are normal, you may be able to wait five years for your next screening.
- Pap test only: If normal, you may be able to wait three years for your next Pap test.
Regardless of which option you choose, it is important to continue routine care and follow your doctor’s recommendations. Early detection of cervical cell changes gives the best chance of preventing cervical cancer.
Emerging Treatments & The Power of Prevention
Rutgers Cancer Institute and RWJBarnabas Health are leading research that is improving treatment outcomes for individuals with HPV-related cancers. Two recent HPV-related studies led by Dr. Christian Hinrichs highlight the potential of novel T cell therapies to achieve long-lasting remission and complete tumor regression in patients with advanced epithelial cancers.
In one study, researchers reported encouraging interim results from a Phase II clinical trial evaluating genetically engineered T cell receptor (TCR)-T cells designed to target the HPV16 E7 oncoprotein (E7 T cells) in patients with metastatic HPV-associated cancers. The therapy was generally well tolerated and led to substantial tumor shrinkage in 6 of 10 patients, including durable complete responses in two patients lasting over 11 months.
In a second study, investigators reported that two patients with metastatic cervical cancer remain in complete remission 10 years after receiving a single infusion of tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) therapy, providing strong evidence that cellular therapy can induce durable, potentially curative responses in epithelial cancers. This work highlights emerging options for patients diagnosed at more advanced stages who have exhausted all other treatments.
Decades of progress in cervical cancer have also significantly reduced both incidence and deaths, largely because of increased screening and HPV vaccination rates in women ages 30 to 44. Persistent disparities among older and underserved populations make it clear that staying up to date on screening remains essential throughout adulthood.
RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute encourages all individuals to speak with their providers and stay current with recommended screening.
