National Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month

Eliminating Cervical Cancer: A Call to Action for Health Equity and Access

This April, as we mark both National Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month and Minority Cancer Awareness Month, Cervivor, Inc. is doubling down on its pledge to dismantle barriers in cervical cancer care.

Rather than focusing on “minority” health, however, we’re shifting the focus to health equity. Our mission is to ensure that every individual – regardless of race, ethnicity, income, or zip code – has access to life-saving treatment, survivorship resources, and education. 

A Call to Action 

On Tuesday, March 26th, Cervivor’s Founder and Chief Visionary Tamika Felder addressed attendees at the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network’s HPV Policy Symposium about the devastating impact cervical cancer has on us individually, nationally, and globally. This preventable disease has claimed too many lives and altered countless others.

But we have the power to change this narrative. The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, along with screening and diagnostic tests, are groundbreaking tools in our mission to eliminate cervical cancer – and we’re committed to making them accessible to all.

“Every patient, every voice, and every cervix matters. Prevention is available, and we can make a difference,” Tamika said at the symposium. “Together, we can create a future where no one has to suffer from this preventable disease. It’s time to push the needle even further and end cervical cancer once and for all. We need to double down on safety, efficacy, and promotion of vaccination. Preserve access to screening, diagnostic, and treatment care – it’s the only way we can achieve elimination.”

The Road to Success

Achieving a future free from cervical cancer requires addressing systemic barriers that prevent marginalized communities from accessing life-saving care. At Cervivor, equity is a core value driving our purpose. We recognize that disparities in healthcare access and outcomes hinder progress against this preventable disease. What can we do to help?

  • Education and Awareness: Counter mis/disinformation and rumors surrounding HPV vaccination and cervical cancer prevention. Ensure that accurate and culturally sensitive information reaches all communities. Utilize trusted partners in purpose like the National HPV Roundtable, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID), and Vaccinate for Your Family.
  • Access to Care: Advocate for policies that protect, preserve, and expand access to HPV cancer prevention care, including vaccination, screening, and early detection. Ensure that treatment and survivorship care services are available and affordable for all. Join nonpartisan organizations like the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACSCAN), Prevent Cancer Foundation, and the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship. 
  • Making Screenings and Vaccinations Widely Available: Increase the availability of screenings and vaccinations in underserved areas, making it easier (not harder) for individuals to take control of their health through mobile clinics, community health centers, work and school-based programs, and pharmacies with expanded services. Addressing barriers such as transportation, finances, language, and cultural competence, plus increasing awareness and education through community outreach, too!

Remembering and Honoring those Impacted 

As we push toward the goal to eliminate cervical cancer, we remember the lives that have been lost and the voices who demand to be heard.

Laura Brennan: A Voice for HPV Vaccination

Laura Brennan‘s courage and resilience in the face of cervical cancer continue to inspire us. The young Irish woman’s life was tragically cut short, but her story serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for collective action to prevent others from the same fate.

Dr. Nina Rickenbacker Edwards: A Passionate Advocate for Awareness

Dr. Nina Rickenbacker Edwards‘ life was forever changed when her daughter, Teolita, was diagnosed with stage IV cervical cancer. Nina became a passionate advocate for cervical cancer awareness and dedicated herself to educating others about the importance of prevention. Through her tireless efforts, Nina honors Teolita’s memory and inspires others to take action to end cervical cancer.

Joey Feek: Country Singer Silenced by Cervical Cancer

The world mourned the loss of country music singer Joey Feek, who passed away from cervical cancer in 2016. Feek’s life and career serve as a testament to the profound impact cervical cancer can have on individuals, families, and communities. 

The Time is Now!

To eliminate cervical cancer, we must confront the systemic barriers, inequities, and injustices that have allowed this preventable disease to persist. In recognition of National Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month and Minority Cancer Awareness Month – and as Cervivor marks its 20th year – we’re calling on our community to support our Tell 20, Give 20 awareness and fundraising campaign. A donation of just $20 can help us continue to “push the needle” toward ending cervical cancer once and for all.

Take Action and Spread Awareness

In a world brimming with causes and issues, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, and unsure of how to make a difference. But fear not! Your voice matters, and your actions, no matter how small, can create waves of change. 

One initiative we are excited to be participating in is President Biden’s declaration of April as National Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month. The proclamation carries profound significance for our Cervivor community, particularly our mission to eradicate cervical cancer. The re-ignition of the Cancer Moonshot initiative underscores the critical need to accelerate advancements in cervical cancer prevention, treatment, and early detection methods. 

For cervical cancer survivors, patients, and advocates, this proclamation reaffirms our commitment to advocating for accessible screenings, eliminating barriers to healthcare access, and raising awareness about the importance of early detection. With screening playing a pivotal role in detecting cervical abnormalities before they progress into cancerous lesions, this initiative aligns with our mission to empower individuals with knowledge, resources, and support in their journey against cervical cancer.  

This month, we’re urging you to join us and take action to spread awareness for this and other important initiatives. From advocating for health equity to supporting cancer awareness and vaccination efforts, there are countless ways to get involved and make a positive impact. So let’s come together as a community and harness our collective power to drive meaningful change.

National Minority Health Month: This month, let’s recognize the disparities in healthcare access and outcomes faced by communities of color communities. By raising awareness and advocating for equitable healthcare policies, we can work towards a healthier, more just society for all.

National Public Health Week (April 1st – 7th): Public health is everyone’s responsibility. During National Public Health Week, let’s celebrate the progress we’ve made in improving health outcomes and renew our commitment to addressing the underlying social, economic, and environmental factors that shape health.

National Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Awareness Week (April 1st – 5th): Adolescents and young adults facing cancer often have unique needs and challenges. We’re using this week to raise awareness about AYA cancer issues, support those affected, and advocate for better research, treatment, and support services. Follow along with our social media platforms and check out our partners over at Stupid Cancer.

Adolescent Immunization Action Week (April 1st – 5th): Vaccines save lives, but immunization rates among adolescents are often lower than desired. This week, we’re highlighting the importance of adolescent immunizations and encouraging parents and caregivers to ensure their teens are up to date on recommended vaccines.

Here are five practical tips to get involved:

1) Utilize Social Media Platforms: Social media isn’t just for sharing selfies and pet videos. It’s a powerful tool for raising awareness and mobilizing communities. Share informative posts, engage in discussions, and use relevant hashtags to amplify your message. Need content? We’ve got you! Like, comment, and share directly from the Cervivor platforms or utilize our social media kit. You can find all of our handles at the bottom of our LinkTree page here.

2) Organize or Participate in Events and Activities: Whether it’s a fundraiser, a MeetUp, or an online event, getting involved in local events is a great way to make a tangible impact. Don’t wait for someone else to take the lead—be the change you wish to see! To join any upcoming events by Cervivor, visit our website.

3) Partner with Organizations: Collaborating with established organizations can give your efforts more reach and credibility. Consider teaming up with groups like Cervivor, which focuses on cervical cancer advocacy and support, to maximize your impact.

4) Engage with Media: Media coverage can shine a spotlight on important issues and spark meaningful conversations. Write letters to the editor, pitch stories to journalists, or even start your own blog or podcast to share stories and perspectives that need to be heard. Need some tips to get you started? We have a media kit for that!

5) Donate to Organizations Doing the Work: Financial support is crucial for organizations working tirelessly to create change. Even a small donation can make a big difference in funding research, providing support services, or advocating for policy changes.

Together, we have the power to create a better, healthier world. So let’s roll up our sleeves, use our voices, and take action for the causes we believe in. Whether it’s advocating for communities of color and their health, promoting public health initiatives, supporting adolescent and young adult cancer awareness, or championing adolescent immunizations, every effort counts. Let’s inspire change, be intentional and inclusive of all, and build a brighter future for generations to come. Thank you for joining us on this journey of advocacy and awareness where we know we can make a difference.