Kaweah Health is your partner in prevention and early detection
January 30, 2026
Routine vaccines and screenings are a powerful duo. Together, they can help protect you from human papillomavirus (HPV) and its effects—which can otherwise quietly develop into cervical cancer over time.
The connection between HPV and cancer
About 1 in 4 Americans currently has HPV, which spreads through skin-to-skin sexual contact. Many HPV infections can go away on their own, but some don’t. When the virus doesn’t clear, it can cause genital warts and 6 types of cancer, including cervical cancer.
In most cases, cervical cancer develops gradually after HPV triggers abnormal, precancerous changes in the cells of the cervix. These early changes usually cause no symptoms, which is why HPV vaccines and screenings matter so much.
Step 1. Complete your HPV vaccines
Because immunization works best before any exposure to the virus, a two-dose series is recommended for everyone ages 11 to 12. If you didn’t receive both of those childhood shots, the CDC recommends the following:
- Up to age 26: You should have a series of 2 or 3 doses.
- Age 27 to 45: Talk with your doctor about whether you should have the HPV vaccine.
HPV vaccination can go a long way in reducing your cervical cancer risk, but it doesn’t protect you against every cancer-causing HPV type—or reverse an existing infection.
Step 2. You still need regular screenings
Routine screening tests are the only way to detect precancerous cell changes—when they can be treated before turning into cervical cancer.
Take charge of your health:
- Starting at age 21: Have a Pap test every 3 years.
- Starting at age 30: Switch to Pap and HPV co-testing every 5 years.
If you have a high risk for cervical cancer, you may need more frequent screenings. Your doctor can help you understand your risk and create a screening schedule that’s right for you.
Don’t skip this important part of your healthcare—it could save your life.
Prioritize your well-being with preventive care. If you don’t have a provider, let us help you establish care and get caught up on important services. Find a nearby Kaweah Health clinic and schedule your appointment today.
