Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers, yet thousands of people in the U.S. are still diagnosed each year. Most cases of cervical cancer are caused by persistent infections with the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that can be prevented with the HPV vaccine. When detected early, cervical cancer is highly treatable, making regular screenings critical for prevention.

While advancements like the HPV vaccine and Pap tests have led to a decline in cervical cancer rates, barriers to care still exist. Healthcare disparities, limited access to screenings, and scheduling challenges prevent many individuals from getting tested. At the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center, researchers are working to expand screening access to ensure that more people can take proactive steps to protect their health.

Bringing Cervical Cancer Screening to the Community

Dr. Leeya Pinder, a physician-researcher at the Cancer Center, is leading efforts to make cervical cancer screening more accessible for medically underserved communities. Her research focuses on self-collection HPV testing, which allows individuals to collect their own sample using a swab or brush and send it to a lab for testing.

This method can be especially beneficial for those who:

• Feel uncomfortable with traditional exams
• Struggle to find time for a doctor’s visit
• Have difficulty accessing screening services

Through her study, LEAP (Leveraging an Early Intervention Program to Increase Access to Cervical Cancer Screening), Dr. Pinder is exploring how self-screening and HPV vaccination can be integrated into community health programs. This research is being conducted in partnership with the University of Cincinnati’s Early Intervention Program (EIP), which connects individuals at risk for health issues with community resources.

In addition to LEAP, Dr. Pinder is working with the Hamilton County 513 Relief Bus to bring HPV self-screening directly to the community. The 513 Relief Bus travels to neighborhoods at least twice a week, providing free health services to those who need them most. Since launching, it has served over 15,000 people.

Studies show that mobile health units help individuals who may not be able to visit a clinic due to transportation challenges, work schedules, or other barriers. Dr. Pinder’s 513-IMPACT Study will explore how mobile screening and vaccination programs can help more people get tested and stay healthy.

By expanding cervical cancer screening options, these studies aim to reduce barriers to care and improve health outcomes in underserved communities.

Taking Steps Toward Prevention

Cervical cancer prevention starts with education, vaccination, and regular screenings. The HPV vaccine can prevent more than 90% of HPV-related cancers, and guidelines recommend regular screenings for those at risk. With innovative approaches like self-collection testing and mobile screening units, researchers are working to ensure that everyone has access to life-saving prevention measures.