Rising Incidence of Cervical Cancer Among Millennial Women

Strong Link Between HPV and Cervical Cancer

Lingering infection with high-risk HPV can set in motion a series of changes that, over time, turn healthy cervical cells into abnormal cells. Left unchecked, these abnormal cells can become precancerous and eventually cancerous unless they’re surgically removed.

Indeed, the lack of screenings can create missed opportunities for critical follow-up care. “It is also likely that fewer women are receiving necessary follow-up care, including treatment for precancer,” Dr. Deshmukh says.

HPV Prevention

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends girls and boys receive the HPV vaccine at age 11 or 12 years, although it can be started at age 9. (The vaccine is recommended for boys because it can prevent infection with HPV types that cause cancers of the mouth, throat, penis, and anus, as well as genital warts.)