In 2026, Barbados will reach its 60th anniversary. For Barbadians, our biggest challenge is poor health, specifically non-communicable diseases like cancer. January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, and as a cervical cancer prevention advocate, I aim to educate the public about its risks. This year, my theme will be “Cervical Health and You”.
Today, the focus is on why cervical health matters, the importance of eating a good diet, early screening, including Pap tests, HPV testing, and awareness.
Why Cervical Health Matters
Cervical cancer develops in the cells of the cervix, often caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) (Healthline).
All Caribbean women will encounter HPV at some point in their lives. Fortunately, only a small percentage of women will develop cancer. However, the risk increases when women do not have access to regular screening or follow-up care.
The key facts are that cervical cancer is preventable with vaccination and screening, early stages rarely show symptoms, and when detected early, treatment success rates are very high (WebMD).
Food Comes First in Cervical Health
The answer to fighting NCDs does not come from a prescription but from our grocery list and local market shopping.
As Caribbean people, we have the best foods to help fight HPV and cervical cancer. Women are encouraged to consume foods high in folate – okra, lentils, black eyed peas, avocado; Vitamin C – guava, soursop, papaya; Vitamin A – pumpkin, carrots, sweet potato; Vitamin E – sunflower oil, almonds, coconut & coconut oil; Omega 3 – sardines, tuna, mackerel; and antioxidants – turmeric, ginger, and soursop.
Importance of Early Screening: Pap Tests and HPV Testing
1. Early Pap test detects abnormal cell changes before they turn into cancer.
An early pap smear test detects abnormal cell changes before they can turn into cancer. The HPV test identifies high-risk strains of HPV that are known to cause cervical cancer. In many Caribbean health guidelines, Pap tests are recommended every three years, or co-testing with HPV every five years when available (NIH).
2. Why early detection is crucial
Early detection saves lives. Here’s why:
● It finds cell changes before symptoms appear.
● It identifies abnormalities while they are still easily treatable.
● It reduces the risk of developing advanced cancer.
● It helps women monitor HPV infections and take action early.
Catching cervical changes early can mean the difference between a simple, outpatient procedure and complex, costly treatment. In my experience, one night with a cervical cancer patient at home can cost more than $500. Early detection is key to avoiding high medical bills.
Cervical cancer screening in the Caribbean: What women should know
While cervical cancer affects women everywhere, Caribbean women face unique challenges. These include limited access to regular screenings in certain islands, cost barriers, cultural stigma and fear, inconsistent health education and fewer specialists and diagnostic centres (NIH). These challenges make awareness and proactive care even more vital.
How to get screened with limited resources
Some Caribbean islands, including Barbados, have pockets of limited resources, long wait times, or fewer clinics offering Pap and HPV testing. Despite these hurdles, women can still stay on top of their cervical health:
1. Know where screenings are offered
In Barbados and similar islands:
● Public polyclinics may offer free Pap tests on scheduled days.
● NGOs and women’s health groups occasionally run mobile clinics or outreach screening programmes.
● Private clinics provide screenings year-round.
Make it a yearly habit to check local health announcements, especially during Cervical Cancer Awareness Month in January.
2. Ask about extended screening intervals
If HPV testing is available, co-testing allows for longer intervals (up to five years) between screenings, easing the burden on both women and health systems. Also, encourage grandmothers, mothers, daughters, nieces, and younger women to get vaccinated early.
3. Leverage digital health and telehealth services
Some clinics globally are expanding telemedicine options to include virtual consultations, digital reminders for screening schedules, and online health education resources. These are innovations that our Barbadian medical community should consider. If you live far from urban health centres, these tools can help you stay informed and connected.
4. Join community health drives
Local non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and church groups often collaborate on free screening days, women’s health workshops, awareness campaigns and participating in community health programmes reduces stigma and increases access.
Practical Tips for Protecting Your Cervical Health
Start screening at age 21 or as recommended by your doctor.
● Quit smoking – it increases cervical cancer risk.
● Practice safe sex and reduce HPV exposure.
● Follow up on any abnormal Pap or HPV results promptly.
● Keep a personal health calendar to track screenings.
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, and regular screening can save lives. For Caribbean women with constrained health care resources, being proactive is essential.
Prioritise Pap tests, seek HPV vaccination, use community and health resources, and stay informed. Your cervical health is your power. Early detection is your best defence.
Sources https://www.healthline.com/health/cervical-cancer
https://www.cancer.gov/types/cervical/screening#:~:text=HPV%20test%20every%205%20years, continue%20screening%20beyond%20age%2065.
By Krystal Penny Bowen
Brought to you by Better Health Magazine
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