Cervical Cancer Prevention Week: Protecting Health Through Awareness, Screening, and Vaccination

Cervical Cancer Prevention Week is a vital opportunity to raise awareness and encourage conversations that genuinely save lives. At Cancer Relief Gibraltar, we believe prevention and early detection are among the most powerful tools we have in reducing cancer risk. By understanding cervical cancer, attending regular screening, and ensuring access to HPV vaccination, people with a cervix can take proactive steps to protect their long-term health.

What is cervical cancer, and why is prevention so important?

Cervical cancer begins in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus. In most cases, it develops slowly over time, starting with small changes in cervical cells known as abnormalities. When these changes are detected early, they can be treated before cancer develops.

Prevention is crucial because:

• Cervical cancer is highly treatable when detected early
• Screening can identify cell changes long before symptoms appear
• HPV vaccination dramatically reduces the risk of cervical and other HPV-related cancers

With the right combination of vaccination, screening, and awareness, cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers.

The HPV vaccine: a powerful tool for prevention

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common virus and the leading cause of cervical cancer. It is often referred to as a silent virus because most people never experience symptoms and may not realise they carry it.

HPV is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, not only through sexual intercourse. This is why vaccination is recommended for all children and teenagers — boys, girls, and non-binary young people.

The HPV vaccine has been proven to:

• Prevent the majority of high-risk HPV infections
• Significantly reduce cancers of the cervix, vulva, vagina, and anus
• Reduce rates of genital warts by around 49% in women and 68% in young heterosexual men

A major UK-based study found that among women in their 20s who had received the HPV vaccine, cervical cancer rates were reduced by almost 90%. This highlights just how effective vaccination is when given early.

Vaccination is typically offered during adolescence, before exposure to HPV, but some adults may also be eligible.

If you are a parent or guardian and have concerns or questions about the HPV vaccine, we strongly encourage you to speak to your child’s school or your GP. Asking questions allows you to educate yourself and make an informed decision for your child or for yourself.

How does cervical screening work, and who should attend?

Cervical screening, often referred to as a smear test, checks for high-risk HPV and for changes in cervical cells. It is a quick procedure carried out by a trained healthcare professional.

Screening is recommended for anyone with a cervix within the eligible age range set by health authorities, usually every three to five years depending on age and previous results.

Even if you feel well, have been vaccinated, or are no longer sexually active, attending screening remains essential.

Overcoming embarrassment and anxiety around screening

It is completely normal to feel worried or embarrassed about cervical screening, and many people do. However, a few minutes of discomfort is a small price to pay when it could help prevent cancer.

Here’s what we want you to know:

• You are not alone. Healthcare professionals perform these tests every day and understand your concerns
• You are in control. You can ask for a slower pace, a different position, or to stop at any time
• It is quick. Most appointments take less than ten minutes
• It could save your life. Screening detects changes long before they become cancerous

If you feel anxious, consider bringing a friend, practising deep breathing, or speaking with your nurse beforehand. They are there to support you.

Know the symptoms never to ignore

Cervical cancer often has no symptoms in its early stages, which is why screening is so important. However, symptoms that should always be checked include:

• Unusual vaginal bleeding, such as after sex, between periods, or after menopause
• Changes in vaginal discharge
• Pain during sex
• Persistent pelvic or lower back pain

These symptoms do not necessarily mean cancer, but they should always be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Together, we can prevent cervical cancer

By talking openly, vaccinating early, attending regular screening, and supporting one another, we can significantly reduce the impact of cervical cancer in Gibraltar.

If you have any questions about HPV vaccination or cervical screening, speak to your GP for medical advice. If you need additional support, reassurance, or guidance, Cancer Relief Gibraltar is here for you.

We’re Here to Listen

If you or someone you know is affected by cancer-related concerns in any way, our team at Cancer Relief Gibraltar is here to listen, care, and support every step of the way.