Alabama health officials seek to eliminate cervical cancer by 2033
Human Papilloma HPV virus vaccine vials and syringe.
Alabama ranks third in the nation for its rates of cervical cancer incidence and mortality, and those rates haven’t changed in 20 years.
“This is not acceptable,” Nancy Wright said during a press conference Monday. “Cervical cancer is preventable. And it’s stoppable.”
Wright, who directs the cancer prevention and control division at the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH), is working with a team of providers and experts from across the state to launch “Operation Wipe Out Cervical Cancer Alabama,” a campaign that aims to end cervical cancer by 2033.
ADPH officials plan to achieve the goal by aggressively pursuing three strategies:
- Vaccinate more kids against the human papilloma virus (HPV), the virus that causes most cases of cervical cancer.
- Increase screenings for cervical cancer among women aged 21-65.
- Connect more women who receive abnormal test results to appropriate follow-up care.
Although HPV vaccination is thought to prevent most cases of cervical cancer, rates of vaccination in Alabama are low. Data from 2022 show that roughly 27% of young adults between the ages of 18 and 26 have completed a full two dose series of the HPV vaccine, which is recommended during childhood and adolescence. Officials hope to significantly increase those numbers through education and outreach.
“This is a historic plan. This is a milestone for us,” state health officer Dr. Scott Harris said. “We really believe that we have the tools and the knowledge to eliminate cervical cancer in our state, and with your help we know that we can do it.”
ADPH officials are working with researchers at UAB Hospital, Auburn University, state and local nonprofits and health care providers to implement “Operation Wipe Out.”
They aim to educate and engage patients through community events and public information campaigns, as well as increase access to vaccination, screenings and follow-up care by adding resources to county health departments and low-income health clinics.
Germany thrived in the first China Shock. But the next one could prove catastrophic.
The export-led industrial model that Germany has pursued for decades is now at a crossroads.
Memphis and Portland, Ore. brace for troops. Why Chicago might be next
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker said the Department of Homeland Security has requested for 100 military personnel to help protect ICE agents and facilities in his state.
5 takeaways from the U.S. ceasefire proposal for Israel and Hamas
The leaders of the U.S. and Israel say they have agreed to a broad plan that could end Israel's war in Gaza. But substantial uncertainties remain.
As sports betting explodes, should states set more limits to stop gambling addiction?
With concerns about addiction rising, some advocates and lawmakers call for federal regulations on the gambling industry — but would settle for more state laws to help curb excessive betting.
EV sales surge in the U.S. ahead of Sept. 30 tax credit deadline
A $7,500 tax credit is available for the lease or purchase of many electric vehicles — but only if contracts are inked by midnight on Sept. 30. The result: The market for EVs is a little distorted.
Trump, Hegseth to headline a highly unusual gathering of top military officials
It is highly unusual to bring in military leaders from across the globe to one central location. The president said the meeting would discuss "esprit de corps."
