Cervical cancer was once the leading cause of death for American women but thanks to increased screening efforts and the availability of the HPV vaccine, the rates have significantly dropped.

According to a recent study conducted by the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, the incidence of cervical cancer is actually rising among low-income white women. The exact reasons for this increase are still unclear, but health experts believe it may be linked to decreased cancer screenings and a lack of follow-up care.

The COVID-19 pandemic has further worsened the situation, with a sharp drop in screening rates for all types of cancer, including cervical cancer. In 2021, 4.4 million fewer women underwent cervical cancer screenings compared to 2019, according to the American Cancer Society. However, even before the pandemic, cervical cancer screening rates had been declining since the year 2000 across races and income levels.

One of the major barriers for low-income women to access cervical cancer screenings is lack of awareness. A survey conducted in 2022 revealed that many women cited not knowing the need for screenings as the main reason for not getting tested. Access to screenings was also mentioned as a major issue, as pelvic exams are usually performed at healthcare provider's offices, which may not be easily accessible for low-income individuals.

The United States Preventive Service Task Force recommends that women should undergo regular cervical cancer screenings, either through Pap smears or HPV tests. However, many women fail to seek follow-up care after receiving abnormal test results or testing positive for HPV. This can lead to delayed treatment and the advancement of cancer, making it harder to treat.

Various factors contribute to the lack of follow-up care, including changes in healthcare providers' acceptance of certain insurances or individuals losing health insurance altogether. The cost of co-pays and the financial burden of medical expenses are also significant barriers for low-income communities.

The situation is particularly challenging for the uninsured, as data suggests that six out of ten uninsured individuals in the United States have put off getting needed healthcare due to cost. Furthermore, most low-income individuals do not have significant savings to cover medical expenses, making it difficult to prioritize regular screenings and follow-up care.

Cervical cancer is a preventable disease, and the rise in rates among low-income women is alarming. Efforts must be made to increase awareness about the importance of screenings and improve access to follow-up care. Addressing the financial barriers and providing support to low-income individuals can play a crucial role in preventing the advancement of cervical cancer and saving lives.

It is crucial that healthcare providers, policymakers, and organizations work together to close the healthcare disparity gap and ensure that all women, regardless of their socioeconomic status, have equal opportunities for cervical cancer prevention and early detection. Only through collective efforts can we effectively tackle this growing issue and reduce the burden of cervical cancer among low-income women in the United States.