National Cancer Institute

Preventing HPV-Related Cancers: Cervivor’s Urgent Call for Action This Women’s Health Month

At Cervivor, Inc., every month is Women’s Health Month. But this May, we’re taking the opportunity to spotlight a critical public health issue that disproportionately impacts women: HPV-related cancers. 

HPV, or human papillomavirus, is an extremely common virus. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 85% of people will be exposed to the virus at some point in their lives. While many HPV strains are essentially harmless, high-risk strains are responsible for more than 37,000 new cancer cases each year in the U.S., including about 21,800 cases in women and 16,000 in men. 

These cancers include vaginal, vulvar, anal, oropharyngeal, penile, and cervical cancer—what Cervivor is dedicated to eliminating. Cervical cancer remains the most common HPV-related cancer in women, with more than 11,000 new cases diagnosed annually.

The good news? Nearly all HPV-related cancers are preventable with tools like vaccination, regular checkups, and early treatment. Just last month, National Cancer Institute researchers reported “phenomenal” new data that a single dose of the HPV vaccine is just as effective as the two doses currently recommended for people aged 9 to 25!

This recent CDC infographic illustrates how effective the HPV vaccine can be in preventing over 90% of related cancers including cervical cancer.

“Knowledge is power—but it’s only the start,” says Tamika Felder, Cervivor’s Founder and Chief Visionary. “Preventable cancers like cervical cancer are on the rise because of complacency, stigma, and misinformation. Up-to-date cervical screenings have dropped over the past two decades, and HPV vaccine uptake was ‘flat’ from 2021 to 2023,” she says, citing an alarming recent report from the American Cancer Society. “The time to prevent suffering—and save lives from cervical and other HPV-related cancers—is now.”

The National HPV Conference: A Gathering of the Minds

Fortunately, Tamika and Cervivor aren’t the only ones prioritizing women’s health and tackling the ongoing challenges of HPV-related diseases. Over 400 attendees gathered with the same mission at the recent National HPV Conference in Indianapolis from April 15 to 17, 2025. Bringing together leading experts, healthcare professionals, researchers, policymakers, and survivors, the conference aimed to facilitate networking, collaboration, and resource sharing like “never done before” in the U.S. 

The National HPV Conference unites leaders toward their shared mission.

Representing Cervivor, Tamika took part in a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Rachel Katzenellenbogen and included other HPV cancer and disease survivors, including recurrent respiratory papillomatosis survivor, Kim McClellan, anal cancer survivor Lillian Kreppel and tonsil cancer survivor Jason Mendelsohn, that underscored the human impact of HPV-related cancers. Later, she and Community Engagement Liaison, Morgan Newman, MSW—a metastatic and recurrent cervical cancer survivor—co-presented with leading global expert and author Dr. Linda Eckert in a session titled “Beyond the Data,” highlighting the power of personal narratives in advocacy.

Cervivor’s founder, Tamika, shared her experience and expertise alongside other HPV cancer survivors, emphasizing the importance of the patient voice.

A few other program highlights from the National HPV Conference: 

  • Keynote Addresses: Dr. Susan Vadaparampil, Associate Center Director of Community Outreach, Engagement, and Equity at Moffitt Cancer Center, delivered a keynote about the importance of advocacy and gave a special shoutout to the Cervivor community. Dr. Michelle Fiscus, Chief Medical Officer for the Association of Immunization Managers and Co-Chair of the National HPV Vaccination Roundtable, also gave a dynamic presentation on the current state of vaccination.
  • Policy and Advocacy Discussions: Dr. Heather Brandt, Director of the St. Jude HPV Cancer Prevention Program, alongside Martha Nolan, Senior Policy Advisor at HealthyWomen, highlighted the critical role of legislative action and community engagement in HPV prevention efforts.
  • Storytelling Session: Sally Perkins, a professional storyteller and cancer survivor, demonstrated the transformative power of storytelling in advocacy.

What’s Next: Challenges and Opportunities

“HPV-related cancers are still a greater threat in the developing world, but it’s alarming that preventable cancers are increasing here in the U.S.—especially as funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and other public and private sources shrinks,” shares Morgan. 

Cervivor Morgan Newman at National HPV Conference
Cervivor’s Community Engagement Liaison Morgan explained how personal narratives can change minds.

Fresh from the National HPV Conference, Morgan outlines several pressing challenges facing the HPV prevention movement:

Vaccine Hesitancy: Despite strong scientific evidence that the HPV vaccine is both safe and effective—and promising news that a single dose may be enough in the future—misinformation and mistrust persist. Disinformation campaigns and cultural stigmas around vaccines continue to suppress vaccination rates, particularly in vulnerable communities. 

Policy and Funding: Sustained progress in HPV prevention relies heavily on legislative support and adequate funding. Cuts to public health budgets and shifting policy priorities threaten access to the HPV vaccine, routine screenings, and treatment services—especially in underserved areas. 

Healthcare Access: Longstanding disparities in healthcare access, insurance coverage, and provider availability mean that too many people—especially in rural, low-income, and marginalized communities—still face barriers to prevention and early detection. Expanding equitable access to care remains a critical need. 

Cervivor’s Response: Advocacy in Action

These challenges fuel our ongoing commitment to protect every person with a cervix from HPV-related cancers. Here’s how Cervivor is responding:

Cervivor School 2024 Graduates and Team Cervivor
Cervivor’s commitment to HPV prevention advocacy includes organizing the annual Cervivor School, where patients and survivors are equipped with the knowledge and tools to advocate for better women’s health care. Shown here is the graduating class of the 2024 school.
  • Enhanced Education Campaigns: Cervivor is tackling vaccine hesitancy through culturally relevant messaging and resources via initiatives such as the Cervical Cancer Summit and Cervivor School, which aims to equip participants with the knowledge and confidence to advocate for HPV prevention within their communities.
  • Empowering Survivors: Through our growing collection of Cervivor Stories, we amplify the lived experiences of patients and survivors to raise awareness, break stigma, and drive meaningful change.
  • Advocacy and Policy Engagement: Members of Cervivor’s team and community proudly contribute to national coalitions including the National HPV Roundtable, National Roundtable on Cervical Cancer, HealthyWomen HPV Coalition, HPV Cancers Alliance, and the St. Jude HPV Cancer Prevention Program, helping shape policies that support prevention, access, and care.
  • Addressing Disparities: Through grassroots, community-led conversations like DEI MeetUps, Black Cervix Chat, Cervivor Español, and international groups like Cervivor Africa and Cervivor Caribbean, we’re ensuring underrepresented voices are heard. (Visit our Events to see if there is a meetup or group that you’d like to join.) We also serve on advisory boards and research committees, championing patient advocacy in clinical trials, screening, and vaccination efforts. 

This Women’s Health Month, we urge our Cervivor community and its allies to recommit to action. Preventable HPV-related cancers shouldn’t still be claiming lives. While cancer doesn’t discriminate, the systems surrounding it often do. It’s time to break down the barriers that stand in the way of prevention, early detection, and treatment.

If you believe in Cervivor’s mission to end cervical cancer and ensure that no one has to face it alone, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution today. Your support helps us continue our lifesaving work.

Global Cervical Cancer Awareness: Survivors’ Stories from Every Corner of the World

As we celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8 and Women’s History Month throughout March, Cervivor, Inc. is proud to share the unique perspectives and experiences of cervical cancer survivors worldwide. These courageous women have bravely shared their stories, highlighting the diverse challenges and triumphs in the mission to end cervical cancer – one of the world’s most preventable cancers. 

Learn about the state of global cervical cancer awareness and support services in each country and be inspired by the patients and survivors who live there. Sadly, one of the women featured is no longer with us, but her legacy continues to make an impact.

United States of America

The State of Cervical Cancer 

In the United States, cervical cancer remains a significant health concern, with 13,360 new cases diagnosed annually, resulting in 4,320 deaths (ACS). According to MedPage Today,  despite the importance of early detection, cervical cancer screening rates have been declining, dropping from 46.8% in 2019 to 40.4% in 2021 before slightly increasing to 40.9% in 2023. 

There are some promising trends: Among women ages 20 to 24 who were screened from 2008 to2022, cervical precancer rates decreased by about 80%. HPV vaccination efforts are also paying off, with 61.4% of adolescents aged 13 to 17 being up-to-date on their vaccinations. Notably, HPV vaccination rates vary significantly by state, ranging from 39% in Mississippi to 85% in Rhode Island. Some states, including Hawaii, Rhode Island, Virginia, and D.C., have implemented laws requiring HPV vaccination for school entry, while others, like California, have enacted laws promoting vaccine education and recommendations (KFF).

Marlene’s Story

Marlene, a cervical cancer survivor from California, shares how her life was forever changed when she was diagnosed with stage IB2 cervical cancer at the age of 33. With a family history of cervical cancer, Marlene was already on high alert, but nothing could have prepared her for the shock and fear that came with her own diagnosis. Throughout her journey, Marlene found strength in her faith, family, and friends, and underwent a radical hysterectomy, external radiation, and chemotherapy. Today, Marlene is passionate about using her experience to help others, emphasizing the importance of regular Pap tests and self-care. Her message to other women is one we all need to hear: “You did nothing wrong… focus on yourself and on what you need.” Read Marlene’s full story.

Support for Survivors

Cervical cancer patients and survivors have access to a range of support resources. The National Cervical Cancer Coalition (NCCC) provides education, advocacy, and support through online forums, local chapters, and a helpline. The American Cancer Society (ACS) offers free resources, including transportation to treatment, lodging, and emotional support. Cervivor focuses on advocacy, education, and support for those impacted by cervical cancer and their families. Additionally, the National Cancer Institute’s (NCI) Cancer Information Service provides information and support via phone, email, and online chat. These organizations, along with others, provide a comprehensive network of support for cervical cancer patients and survivors.

Kenya

The State of Cervical Cancer

According to the World Health Organization, Sub-Saharan Africa, where Kenya is located, bears a disproportionate burden of cervical cancer, with 34.8 cases per 100,000 women diagnosed annually, and 22.5 deaths per 100,000 women. In Kenya, it remains the second most common cancer in women (HPV Information Centre). The region’s low screening rates exacerbate this issue, with only 10 to 12% of women in sub-Saharan Africa accessing screening services (Djibril et al.). HPV vaccination rates vary widely across countries. Some nations like Eritrea, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Mauritius, and Mozambique have made significant strides, achieving vaccination rates of over 70% (Kenya’s is about 44%). However, other countries, such as South Africa and Nigeria, still struggle with vaccination rates as low as 3% (World Bank).

Jane’s Story

Jane, a cervical cancer survivor from Nairobi, Kenya, shares her powerful story of resilience and advocacy. Diagnosed with stage IB2 cervical cancer in 2014 at age 41, Jane’s life was forever changed. After a hysterectomy and 25 sessions of radiotherapy, Jane remained optimistic and prayerful, despite facing challenges like severe diarrhea, lymphedema, and high blood pressure. Now an 11-year cancer survivor, Jane advocates for cervical cancer awareness, emphasizing the importance of regular screening and encouraging women to take control of their health. She believes cancer is treatable if diagnosed early and spreads this message through speaking engagements and advocacy work. Read Jane’s full story.

Support for Survivors

In Africa, support for cervical cancer patients and survivors is primarily driven by initiatives focused on increasing access to screening, early detection, and treatment. Organizations like the World Health Organization, national resources like the Kenyan Network of Cancer Organizations (KENCO), , local Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), as well as Cervivor Africa offer a range of services, including patient education, counseling, support groups, and access to affordable treatment options.

Scotland

The State of Cervical Cancer 

In Scotland, cervical cancer affects a significant number of women, with 326 new cases diagnosed each year, translating to approximately 11.7 cases per 100,000 women (Cancer Research UK). Fortunately, the country has made notable progress in cervical cancer prevention, with 68.7% of eligible women aged 25 to 64 up-to-date on their screening (Public Health Scotland). Additionally, Scotland’s HPV vaccination program has shown promising results, with 71.5% of first-year secondary school students receiving at least one dose of the HPV vaccine in the 2023-2024 school year (Public Health Scotland).

Cara’s Story

At 33, Cara was diagnosed with stage II cervical cancer after experiencing symptoms like excessive bloating and abdominal pain.  Initially in shock and afraid, Cara underwent fertility treatment to preserve her eggs, followed by 25 rounds of radiotherapy, six chemotherapies, and three rounds of brachytherapy. Throughout her treatment, Cara practiced self-care, exploring mindfulness, meditation, and other calming activities to cope with the emotional and physical challenges. Now, Cara is out of treatment and shares her message to other women: “You are powerful. You have got this. You matter. Keep up with your routine check-ups. Put your health first.” Read Cara’s full story.

Support for Survivors

In Scotland, organizations offer a range of support services to help recently diagnosed patients navigate their journey. Macmillan Cancer Support provides dedicated nurses, a support line, online forums, and information regarding the disease. Cancer Research UK also has a helpline with specialist nurses to discuss concerns and access information about cervical cancer. Additionally, The Eve Appeal, a UK-based charity, provides specialist support and information for anyone affected by gynecological cancers, including cervical cancer. Their expert nurses and information team are available to answer questions, offer emotional support, and provide guidance on treatment options and living with the disease.

Philippines

The State of Cervical Cancer 

The Philippines faces significant challenges in combating cervical cancer, with 8,549 new cases and 4,380 deaths reported annually (International Agency for Research on Cancer). A major contributor to these alarming numbers is the country’s low cervical cancer screening rate, with fewer than 1 in 10 women screened in the last five years (Philippine Institute for Development Studies). Efforts to vaccinate girls against HPV are underway, but coverage remains limited, with only 60% of provinces participating in a school-based program. This lack of access has led to the Philippines ranking last in HPV program coverage among low-middle-income countries (BMJ Global Health).

Hazel’s Story

Diagnosed with stage IV cervical and ovarian cancer at 37, Hazel’s life was forever changed. Despite the initial shock, fear, and pain, Hazel underwent surgery, homeopathic and alternative treatments, and one session of chemotherapy. Throughout her journey, Hazel found strength in prayer, adopting the mantra “P.U.S.H. – Pray Until Something Happens.” Now, Hazel lives a stress-free life, prioritizing a healthy lifestyle, organic living, and her faith. Her message to other women is one of caution and empowerment: “Cervical cancer is a silent killer… Visit your doctors regularly, be cautious, eat right, exercise daily, and pray always for a stress-free life.” Read Hazel’s full story.

Support for Survivors

In the Philippines, cervical cancer patients and survivors can access support through various organizations. The Philippine Cancer Society (PCS) provides education, screening, and support services, while the Cancer Warriors Foundation offers support, education, and advocacy. International organizations with Philippine chapters, such as the International Union Against Cancer (UICC), also provide support and resources for cervical cancer patients and survivors in the Philippines.

Italy

The State of Cervical Cancer 

In Italy, cervical cancer affects a significant number of women, with 3,105 new cases and 1,011 deaths reported annually (HPV Information Centre). However, the country has made notable strides in cervical cancer screening, with 77.5% of women aged 25-64 undergoing screening within the past three years (Statista). Additionally, Italy has implemented HPV vaccination programs, with 38.8% of 12-year-old girls and 31.81% of 12-year-old boys receiving the vaccine in 2022 (Statista).

Stefania’s Story 

Diagnosed with stage I adenocarcinoma at 33, Stefania’s life was turned upside down. After undergoing a trachelectomy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and brachytherapy, Stefania faced numerous challenges, including exhaustion, fear, and a painful breakup with her boyfriend. Despite these obstacles, Stefania found strength in writing, psychological support, and healthy eating. Afterwards, Stefania started rebuilding her life, including a new job, and advocating for cervical cancer awareness, particularly among young adult women. Her message is one of hope and support: “I am here for any kind of support I can give… I want to spread the word about HPV, cervical cancer, and the importance of knowing your rights during and after cancer.” Read Stefania’s full story.

Support for Survivors

In Italy, cervical cancer patients and survivors can access support through various organizations. The Italian Cancer Society (Associazione Italiana per la Ricerca sul Cancro, AIRC) and the Italian Association for Cancer Research (AIRC) provide information, resources, and support for cancer patients, including those with cervical cancer. The Italian League Against Cancer (Lega Italiana per la Lotta contro i Tumori, LILT) also offers support services, including counseling, financial assistance, and access to screening programs.

Japan

The State of Cervical Cancer 

Cervical cancer remains a public health concern in Japan, with 12,785 new cases and 4,213 deaths reported annually (HPV Information Centre) – comparable to U.S. rates, but with a much smaller population. One reason: The country’s cervical cancer screening rate is relatively low, at around 43% for women aged 20 to 69, compared to other developed countries. However, efforts to prevent cervical cancer through HPV vaccination are underway, with 30.1% of eligible individuals having received at least one dose of the HPV vaccine as of April 2022 (Global Health & Medicine).

Ryoko’s Story

At 38, Ryoko was diagnosed with cervical cancer after experiencing watery discharge with blood.  Having to navigate the diagnosis and treatment alone because her mother was in a nursing home and Ryoko lived alone, she underwent a total hysterectomy and lymph node removal. Fortunately, there were no remaining cancer cells, and Ryoko was able to recover without further treatment. She highlights the cultural challenges in discussing cervical cancer. “I do not want any other woman to have this kind of hardship,” Ryoko explains. “I want to get rid of the stigma surrounding this disease. I hope one day, no women suffer from cervical cancer.” Read Ryoko’s full story.

Support for Survivors

In Japan, cervical cancer patients and survivors can access support through various organizations. The Japan Cancer Society and the Japanese Cancer Association provide information, resources, and support for cancer patients, including those with cervical cancer. NGOs like Cancer Support Community Japan provide emotional support and counseling for women with gynecologic cancers, including cervical cancer.

Qatar

The State of Cervical Cancer 

According to the HPV Information Centre, Qatar has only 23 new cases and 11 deaths reported annually. However, the country’s cervical cancer screening rate is also relatively low, at 17.2%, according to Sidra Medicine. Additionally, Qatar has a current HPV vaccination rate of 5.8% as of October 2024. This rate lags behind neighboring countries like the UAE, which boasts a vaccination rate of 18.9%. Currently, the vaccine is available upon request, but Qatar’s Supreme Immunization Committee is reviewing the incorporation of the HPV vaccine into the country’s childhood immunization schedule (BMC Public Health).

Valerie’s Story

Valerie was no stranger to gynecologic issues such as abdominal pain and a history of ovarian cysts, but when she was diagnosed with stage IB2 adenocarcinoma at 38, her life was turned upside down. She underwent chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and brachytherapy. She is now NED (no evidence of disease). Throughout her journey, Valerie has emphasized the importance of self-advocacy, persistence, and seeking medical attention when something feels off. Her message to other women is one of empowerment: “Never ignore your symptoms. Get your kids vaccinated against HPV, and find a gynecologist that listens to you.” Valerie continues to share her story, support others, and advocate for women’s health, inspiring countless individuals along the way. Read Valerie’s full story.

Support for Survivors

Individuals affected by cervical cancer can find support through the Qatar Cancer Society (QCS), a charity dedicated to providing care and resources for those living with cancer. The QCS has launched the “Women’s Cancer Support Groups” program in collaboration with the Women’s Health and Research Centre and the National Centre for Cancer Care and Research. This initiative offers psychosocial and community support specifically tailored for women with cancer, including those with cervical cancer, providing a safe space for connection, sharing, and healing.

Canada

The State of Cervical Cancer 

In Canada, cervical cancer is still a concern, with approximately 1,550 new diagnoses and 400 deaths reported in 2023. Despite the importance of early detection, screening rates fall short, ranging from 60% to 75% in 2022, with about 37% of diagnosed individuals having never been screened or not screened in the previous five years. To combat this, Canada aims to have 90% of eligible individuals up-to-date with cervical screening by 2030. While HPV vaccination rates vary from 57% to 91% across provinces, there is a focus on continued awareness, education, and advocacy efforts to create a future where cervical cancer is rare and manageable (Canadian Partnership Against Cancer).

Grace’s Story

Unlike the other global survivors featured here, Grace is no longer alive, but she left a lasting mark on the lives of those who knew her. Diagnosed with stage II adenocarcinoma at 40, Grace faced her journey with resilience and determination. During the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Grace underwent radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and brachytherapy, all while sharing her story to raise awareness about cervical cancer and the importance of screening. Through her blog, Gracie’s Cancer Journey, she inspired countless individuals with her courage, humor, and advocacy. Her legacy reminds us that cervical cancer is preventable through screening and that sharing our stories can make a profound difference. Read Grace’s full story.

Support for Survivors

The Canadian Cancer Society offers a comprehensive support system, including a helpline, online community, and community services locator. Additionally, CancerCare Ontario provides valuable resources for individuals with cancer, their families, and their caregivers. The Canadian Foundation for Women’s Health also plays a vital role in supporting women’s health, funding research that improves sexual and reproductive health, backing international women’s health programs, and advocating for increased funding for women’s health research. These organizations provide a safety net of care, guidance, and community for those navigating cervical cancer.

Guyana

The State of Cervical Cancer 

In Guyana, cervical cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women, with 121 new cases and 63 deaths annually. To combat this, Guyana has implemented a national program aiming to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030. The Ministry of Health’s Package of Essential Health Services includes cervical cancer prevention, screening, and treatment. Guyana was a pioneer in the Caribbean in introducing the HPV vaccine in 2012 and expanding it to both males and females aged 9 to 16 in 2017. Unfortunately, COVID-19 disruptions, including school closures, hindered efforts to sustain and increase HPV vaccination rates, which are now lower than desired (PanAmerican Health Organization).

Davina’s Story

Davina, who lives in  Georgetown, Guyana, was a radiation therapist when she was diagnosed with stage II cervical cancer at age 39. Struggling with the initial shock and anger, Davina underwent 25 sessions of external beam radiation, 5 cycles of chemotherapy, and 3 sessions of brachytherapy. Throughout her journey, Davina found strength in her faith, family, and positive thinking. Today, Davina is a dedicated advocate, raising awareness about cervical cancer and the importance of early detection, screening, and vaccination. Her message is clear: “Get informed, get tested, get vaccinated. Early detection will save your life.” Read Davina’s full story.

Support for Survivors

Cervical cancer patients and survivors can access various support services in Guyana to aid in their journey. Cervivor offers a virtual support group, Cervivor Caribbean, for cervical cancer patients and survivors throughout the region to connect and gain support. The Guyana Cancer Institute offers medical treatment, counseling, and support services. Additionally, organizations like the Guyana Cancer Foundation and The Guyana Cancer Prevention Society also promote cancer awareness, public health education, early detection, and palliative care.

Turn Experience into Action

As the stories of Marlene, Jane, Cara, Hazel, Stefania, Ryoko, Valerie, Grace, and Davina show, each journey with cervical cancer is uniquely personal yet universally impactful. But one pressing issue remains: We must end cervical cancer both in America and around the world. The good news? We have the tools to do it. With increased awareness, improved access to screening and vaccination, and continued advocacy, we can create a future where no woman has to face this disease. 

Let the experiences of these global cervical cancer patients and survivors inspire us to take action, educate ourselves and others, and demand a world where cervical cancer is a thing of the past. 

Get involved by:

  • Sharing these stories on social media using the hashtags #Cervivor #EndCervicalCancer #CervicalCancer #InternationalWomensDay #WeAreCervivor.
  • Learning more about cervical cancer and its impact around the world, and advocating for policies and programs that prioritize women’s health and well-being.
  • Supporting organizations, like Cervivor, who are working to improve access to cervical cancer screening, treatment, and survivorship. It’s as simple as giving a one-time donation or becoming a monthly donor at your preferred amount. Remember, every dollar matters!

We can make this vision a reality.
We can ensure that no one with a cervix dies from cervical cancer.
We can make a difference.