Cervical Cancer Screening

Cervical cancer is a leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide, although it is a preventable disease. Prevention strategies include human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and screening tests to detect abnormal cervical lesions. HPV vaccines can prevent up to 90% of cervical cancers if administered before sexual debut and HPV infection. Cervical cancer takes many years to develop following persistent HPV infection and development of cervical dysplasia. The primary purpose of screening is to find and treat women with dysplasia to prevent progression to invasive cancer. There are challenges and barriers to vaccination and screening. The emergency department is a potential resource to improve cervical cancer prevention efforts and increase screening rates through education and patient navigation.