With January recognized as Cervical Health Awareness Month, I want to make sure women understand the updated guidelines for annual exams as well as the latest on the human papillomavirus vaccine.

The American Cancer Society estimates 12,990 women will be diagnosed with cervical cancer this year and about 4,120 will die from the disease. Although this number is lower compared to previous years, there is still work to be done to ensure more women undergo regular screenings.

Pap smears are required every three years, but women should still get a wellness exam annually where doctors can assess whether a cervical cancer test is needed. A Pap test can identify cell changes in the cervix and let health care providers know if a woman has a high risk for cervical cancer. Because cervical cancer is slow growing and sometimes has no symptoms, it can most effectively be treated when caught early.

Women should also know the latest recommendations for the HPV vaccine. The first thing to know about HPV is there are different types. While some cause genital warts, other types are linked to cervical cell changes that can increase the risk for cervical cancer. Secondly, HPV vaccine can help prevent infection for both types of the virus, especially when administered to preteens.

Recently, the Centers for Disease Control changed its recommendation to only two doses of the HPV vaccine compared to the previous three. While women should still get examined every year even if they have the vaccine, the vaccine does reduce the risk of cervical cancer.


As a Banner Medical Group physician and the only gynecological oncologist based in Northern Colorado, it's my goal to ensure more women get tested for cervical cancer, understand their diagnosis and, if needed, get treatment right away. Every woman deserves to receive personalized, safe, compassionate and comprehensive gynecologic care.

Jennifer Rubatt, M.D.