Charlottesville, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Emma Mitchell, a public health nurse, scholar, and an Associate Professor and Director of Global Initiatives at the University of Virginia School of Nursing, joined Morning News to discuss the critical importance of cervical cancer awareness and prevention. With January being Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, Mitchell emphasized the significance of regular screenings to detect precancerous changes, often asymptomatic. She highlighted, “Sometimes there are symptoms, and sometimes there aren’t… following those guidelines for screening, even if you don’t have symptoms, is really important.” 

Mitchell explained the evolving screening recommendations, including combining Pap tests with HPV testing every five years starting at age 30. A groundbreaking advancement is the FDA’s approval of self-collection for HPV testing. “You have the choice now to go to your healthcare provider when you’re due for screening and talk to them. Either they can collect the sample for testing for you, or while you’re in the office, you can now collect your own sample as well.” This innovation aims to reduce barriers and encourage more women to get screened. 

Beyond prevention, Mitchell shared UVA’s global health initiatives, including a clinical trial in Nicaragua integrating self-collected HPV tests with mobile health technology to connect women with healthcare providers.  

The conversation emphasizes the importance of awareness, early detection, and innovation in the fight against cervical cancer. Listen here for the full conversation: