Cervical Cancer and HPV: What Every Woman Needs to Know
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer—yet it still affects thousands of women every year. The key reason? Gaps in screening and access to care. At Aslan Health, we believe no woman should go without life-saving preventive care, which is why we’re committed to making women’s health affordable and accessible.
Understanding HPV and Cervical Cancer
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the primary cause of cervical cancer. In fact, over 90% of cervical cancer cases are linked to HPV infections.
HPV is extremely common. Most people will be exposed to it at some point in their lives. In many cases, the body clears the virus naturally. However, certain high-risk strains can persist and lead to abnormal cell changes that may eventually become cancer.
The good news is this: cervical cancer develops slowly. That means there is a significant window of opportunity to detect and treat problems early—before cancer ever develops.
Why Screening Matters
Regular screening is the most effective way to prevent cervical cancer.
There are two primary tests:
- Pap smear (Pap test): Detects abnormal cells on the cervix
- HPV test: Identifies high-risk strains of the virus
These screenings can catch precancerous changes early, when treatment is simple and highly effective.
Because of widespread screening, cervical cancer rates have declined significantly over time.
Yet many women still miss screening due to:
- Cost concerns
- Lack of insurance
- Busy schedules
- Fear or uncertainty
That’s where access becomes critical.
The SAGE Program: Removing Barriers to Care
In Minnesota, the SAGE Screening Program is a powerful resource designed to eliminate financial barriers.
Through SAGE, eligible women can receive:
- Free cervical cancer screenings (Pap and HPV testing)
- Office visits related to screening
- Follow-up care if results are abnormal
SAGE specifically serves individuals who:
- Are uninsured or underinsured
- Have high deductibles or out-of-pocket costs
- Meet income guidelines
This program exists because early detection saves lives. It connects patients to screening, diagnosis, and even treatment pathways when needed.
For many women in our community—especially those in the ALICE population—this program is the difference between going without care and catching cancer early.
Prevention: More Than Just Screening
While screening is critical, prevention goes even further.
1. HPV Vaccination
The HPV vaccine can prevent the majority of HPV-related cancers. In fact, it can prevent over 70% of these cancers when given before exposure.
2. Routine Care
Regular visits allow providers to monitor changes over time and ensure screenings stay on schedule.
3. Healthy Lifestyle
Reducing risk factors like tobacco use and maintaining a strong immune system also plays a role in prevention.
Women’s Health at Aslan Health
At Aslan Health, we work to remove the barriers that keep women from getting care.
Through our Women’s Health services, we provide:
- Affordable office visits
- Cervical cancer screenings (Pap tests and HPV testing)
- Preventive care and education
- Guidance on programs like SAGE
We understand that cost, time, and access matter. That’s why we keep our pricing simple and transparent—and why we help connect patients to free programs when they qualify.
If you’ve been putting off a screening, you’re not alone. But delaying care allows preventable conditions to progress. Getting screened is one of the simplest and most important steps you can take for your health.
Take the Next Step
Cervical cancer is largely preventable. However, prevention only works when screening happens.
If you:
- Haven’t had a recent Pap test
- Don’t have insurance
- Have a high deductible
- Or simply aren’t sure where to start
We can help.
At Aslan Health, we are here to care for our neighbors—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—by making healthcare accessible when it matters most.