Disparities in Cervical Cancer Incidence & Mortality
- Every two minutes, a woman dies from cervical cancer globally—even though it’s preventable and treatable.
- Black women in the U.S. are 41% more likely to develop cervical cancer and 75% more likely to die from it compared to white women. [stjude.org], [blackdoctor.org]
- The mortality rate is about 65% higher for Black women than their white counterparts. [cancer.org], [honorsociety.org]
- Black women are more frequently diagnosed at late stages, which significantly worsens survival outcomes. [stjude.org], [honorsociety.org]
What is HPV?
HPV is the underlying cause: Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by high-risk HPV types, particularly 16 and 18. [stjude.org], [honorsociety.org] Human papillomavirus (HPV) causes nearly all cervical cancer cases. HPV is the most common STI in the U.S. There are different strains of HPV: high risk and low risk, some are symptomless, and certain strains can lead to cancer if undetected. Prevention strategies include:
- HPV Vaccination: Recommended starting at age 9 through 26; adults up to 45 may benefit after consulting a provider.
- Regular Screening: Pap tests and HPV tests can detect precancerous changes early.
- Timely Treatment: Early-stage cervical cancer has a survival rate above 90%. [cdc.gov], [amwa-doc.org]
Why do Disparities Exist?
- Screening and follow-up gaps: Many Black women experience delays in Pap or HPV testing follow-up care. In one study, nearly 46% of Black women did not return for further testing after an abnormal result, compared to lower rates in white populations. [honorsociety.org]
- Social and structural determinants: Factors such as medical mistrust, lack of access, lower health literacy, unreliable insurance coverage, and implicit bias contribute to delayed care and poorer outcomes. [stjude.org], [honorsociety.org]
Gaps in HPV Vaccination
- Lower vaccination rates among Black young adults: Non-Hispanic Black females aged 19–26 are about 20% less likely to have started the HPV vaccine compared to their white peers. [minorityhe…th.hhs.gov]
- Parental hesitancy contributes: Studies show Black mothers’ intended vaccine uptake is influenced by vaccine safety concerns, perceived benefits, and provider recommendation. [frontiersin.org]
- Medical Mistrust: Generational mistrust leads to delayed screenings.
How Village of Healing Is Addressing These Challenges
The Village of Healing Center provides access to culturally sensitive healthcare by Black providers focused on improving health outcomes for Black women. Our model of care provides:
- Gynecology & Obstetric Services: Routine Pap tests and HPV screenings by compassionate medical providers.
- Education & Advocacy: Breaking stigma around sexual health and prevention.
- Integrated Care: Primary care, mental health counseling, resources and tailored programs.
- Post Partum Care: Integrated appointments for mom and baby to be seen together during baby’s first year of life. These checkups prevent mothers getting “lost” in follow-up care.
Actionable Steps for Black Women during Cervical Cancer Prevention Week
- Get vaccinated: The HPV vaccine protects against the strains that cause ~90% of cervical cancers. Most effective when administered before exposure to HPV (ideally ages 11–12, but catch-up vaccination remains useful until age 26). [fightcancer.org], [stjude.org]
- Stay on schedule with cervical screenings: Regular Pap and/or HPV testing can detect precancerous changes early. Don’t delay follow-up appointments if results are abnormal. Call The Village of Healing Center at 216-815-4325 for an appointment.
- Build trust through informed dialogue: Discuss any vaccine safety or healthcare mistrust concerns with your provider. Personalized attention and culturally competent care make all the difference.
- Talk About It: Share information about cervical cancer with friends and discuss family history with family members—awareness saves lives.
Get more information:
7 Common Misconceptions About HPV Among Black People – BlackDoctor.org – Where Wellness & Culture Connect
