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Cervical cancer was once a leading cause of cancer death for women in the United States.
Rates have decreased greatly over the past 20 years, thanks to improved prevention. Kaiser Permanente is a leader in cervical cancer prevention, with screening and vaccination rates are in the top 10% nationwide, according to the 2025 Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS®).
But we can do even better. Our goal is to end cervical cancer among our members.
"Cervical cancer is completely preventable," said Tracy Seo, MD, a Kaiser Permanente ob-gyn in Northern California. "Our 3-part strategy includes vaccination, screening, and timely treatment."
Step 1: HPV vaccination
Almost all cervical cancers are caused by HPV, which is short for human papillomavirus. HPV is spread through intimate skin-to-skin or sexual contact.
HPV is common. Nearly everyone will get HPV at some point in their lives. In most cases, the body's immune system clears the virus before it can damage cells. When that doesn't happen, HPV disrupts a cell’s normal functions, which can lead to several types of cancer.
Fortunately, there's a simple way to prevent HPV: Get vaccinated.
- HPV vaccination works best as part of routine childhood and adolescent vaccinations. That way young people are protected before they're exposed to the virus.
- HPV vaccination is recommended for children at 11 or 12 years old. HPV vaccines can start as early as age 9.
- We recommend that everyone get the HPV vaccine before age 27.
Even if you've screened positive for HPV, vaccination may still benefit you. It could help your immune system respond better. The vaccine can also help protect you from other types of HPV.
"The HPV vaccine doesn't just prevent cervical cancer," Dr. Seo said. "It also helps prevent cancer of the vulva, vagina, penis, anus, and throat. It's really a cancer prevention vaccine."
Step 2: Cervical cancer screening
The HPV vaccine provides long-lasting protection, but it doesn't protect against all types of HPV. And it doesn't prevent all forms of cervical cancer.
That's why regular cervical cancer screening is essential. Screening helps detect warning signs before they become a problem. Cervical cancer can usually be treated successfully when it's found early.
The best test for you depends on your age and prior test results.
Your doctor may recommend that you get a Pap test starting at age 21. If your results are normal, you can wait 3 years to have another test.
Your doctor may recommend that you get an HPV test starting at age 25 or later. If your results are negative, you can wait 5 years to have another test.
Step 3: Quick treatment helps cervical cancer prevention
If your HPV test shows that HPV is present, or if you have an unclear or abnormal Pap test, it doesn't mean you have cancer.
Your care team will work with you to develop a follow-up plan with recommendations based on your age, test results, and other factors. The next steps might include regular monitoring or finding out what type of HPV was found. Follow-up care may also include a colposcopy, which is a closer look at your cervix, or a cervical biopsy.
"When people have access to the care they need, including vaccination and screening, their chances of getting cervical cancer are significantly reduced," Dr. Seo said. "Our goal is to help people access the care they deserve."
Learn more about cancer prevention at Kaiser Permanente.