USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute hosts statewide cervical cancer elimination summit
Alabama is the first and only state in the nation to have a comprehensive cervical cancer elimination plan.
By Jessica Jones
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To continue to advance efforts to eliminate cervical cancer, the USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute (MCI) hosted the 2026 WIPE OUT Cervical Cancer Summit Jan. 9, bringing together health leaders and community partners from across the state. Partners included the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) and the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH).
Held on the campus of the University of South Alabama, the summit is part of OPERATION WIPE OUT, a statewide initiative focused on ending cervical cancer as a public health problem through education, prevention and improved access to HPV vaccination, screening, follow-up care and treatment. Alabama is the first and only state in the nation to have a comprehensive cervical cancer elimination plan.
Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is the primary cause of cervical cancer and several other cancers. Health officials estimate there is an 85% chance of HPV infection during a person’s lifetime. Approximately 1 in 4 men and 1 in 5 women are infected with high-risk HPV types known to cause cancer.
The issue is especially urgent in Alabama. The state ranks sixth nationally in cervical cancer incidence and third in mortality, underscoring the need for coordinated prevention and early detection efforts.
“Education, vaccination and access to screening are critical to reducing cervical cancer rates in Alabama,” said Jennifer Y. Pierce, M.D., MPH, FACOG, gynecologic oncologist at MCI and division director of Cancer Control and Prevention. “Events like this allow us to align efforts statewide and strengthen partnerships that improve outcomes.”
Presentations and panel discussions throughout the summit addressed HPV vaccination, screening, and follow-up care — the core pillars of cervical cancer elimination. Speakers represented MCI, UAB, ADPH, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Mobile County Health Department and nonprofit organizations.
Recent updates to prevention and screening guidelines were also highlighted. In December 2025, HPV vaccination recommendations were updated to a single-dose regimen, instead of two doses, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The vaccine is most effective when given between ages 9 and 11 but can be administered to adults up to age 45.
Additionally, HPV testing will become the preferred method of cervical cancer screening beginning in January 2027. Testing can be completed in a clinical setting or through self-collection, expanding access for patients who may face barriers to traditional screening.
“We have the tools. We have the plan. We have the resources to wipe out cervical cancer in Alabama,” said Scott Harris, M.D., Alabama state health officer.
The summit concluded with networking and a Champion Training session designed to equip community leaders with tools and resources to promote HPV vaccination and cervical cancer prevention within their communities.
For more information about OPERATION WIPE OUT and cervical cancer prevention, visit operationwipeout.org.
