Prevalence of Women in the US Who Have Never Underwent Cervical Cancer Screening
Overview
This study evaluates the increase in the prevalence of women in the US who have never undergone cervical cancer screening from 2005 to 2023, highlighting disparities among different age groups.
Background
Cervical cancer is largely preventable through effective screening programs; however, many women remain unscreened. Identifying women who have never been screened is crucial for addressing gaps in preventive care, especially for younger women who are newly eligible for screening.
Data Highlights
Age Group
Percentage Never Screened (2005)
Percentage Never Screened (2023)
Average Annual Percentage Change (AAPC)
21-29 years
12.5% (3.5 million)
31.9% (6.2 million)
5.2%
30-65 years
5.3% (4.3 million)
14.8% (9.2 million)
6.8%
Key Findings
The percentage of women aged 21 to 29 years who had never undergone cervical cancer screening rose from 12.5% in 2005 to 31.9% in 2023.
For women aged 30 to 65 years, the proportion never screened increased from 5.3% in 2005 to 14.8% in 2023.
HPV vaccination rates among women aged 21 to 29 years increased from 5.7% in 2008 to 54.0% in 2019.
Significant increases in cervical cancer incidence were observed among women aged 30 to 64 years, particularly in regional and distant stages after 2017.
Joinpoint regression analysis revealed an annual percentage change in nonscreening rates from 2010 to 2023.
Clinical Implications
The rising prevalence of never-screened women highlights the need for targeted outreach and education to improve cervical cancer screening rates, especially among younger populations. Healthcare providers should prioritize discussions around screening and HPV vaccination to mitigate future cervical cancer risks.
Conclusion
The study underscores a troubling trend in cervical cancer screening rates among US women, particularly in younger age groups, necessitating urgent public health interventions.
by Kalyani Sonawane, Haluk Damgacioglu, Trisha L. Amboree, Marvella E. Ford, Ketki N. Borse, Brian Orr, Gweneth Lazenby, Ana Patrica Ortiz, Ashish A. Deshmukh