January marks Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of prevention, regular screening, and equitable access to healthcare. Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer, yet barriers such as stigma, lack of information, and limited access to care continue to affect many communities.
In Peel Region, racialized communities, newcomers, and people with limited access to primary healthcare may be less likely to receive regular Pap tests or HPV screening. Language barriers, past medical trauma, and systemic inequities can all play a role in delayed diagnosis.
At Moyo Health & Community Services, we understand that sexual and reproductive health is deeply connected to trust, cultural safety, and access to accurate information. Promoting education around HPV vaccination, routine screening, and bodily autonomy is essential to reducing cervical cancer rates and supporting long-term community health.
Cervical Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder that prevention saves lives. By encouraging open conversations and advocating for accessible, stigma-free care, we can work toward better health outcomes for everyone in our community.
Local Resources in Peel
Sexual Health & Screening Services (free, confidential):
Peel Public Health operates Healthy Sexuality Clinics that provide sexual health support, including information, counselling, and testing related to HPV and other sexually transmitted infections — all of which can be stepping stones toward cervical cancer screening conversations with a provider.
- Fairview Clinic – Peel Public Health – Counselling and sexual health services (Peel) Peel Public Health Healthy Sexuality Clinics – Fairview Location
- Meadowvale Clinic – Peel Public Health – Inclusive, walk-in-friendly services Peel Public Health Healthy Sexuality Services – Meadowvale Clinic
- Brampton Clinic – Peel Public Health – Supportive sexual health care in Brampton Peel Public Health Healthy Sexuality Services – Brampton Clinic
- Malton Clinic – Peel Public Health – STI testing and reproductive health support Health & Sexuality Clinics
HPV Vaccination & Prevention:
Peel Public Health’s school vaccination program offers the HPV vaccine to Grade 7 and 8 students at no cost, with catch-up clinics available for eligible students who missed their school-based doses.
Provincial Screening Information:
- Ontario’s official guide on cervical cancer screening and HPV prevention offers details about eligibility, testing intervals, and how to access screening appointments with a health care provider (e.g., doctor, nurse practitioner, or midwife).
References
- Canadian Cancer Society. (2024). Cervical cancer.
- Public Health Agency of Canada. (2023). HPV and cervical cancer prevention.
- Ontario Health. (2024). Cervical screening guidelines.
- Canada.ca. Cervical Cancer Awareness Month: Protect your health with screening. Canada Cervical Cancer Awareness Month – Screening Facts
- Ontario Health. Ontario introduces new cervical screening test to better prevent cervical cancer. Ontario Cervical Screening Program & HPV Testing Update
- Peel Region Services. Healthy Sexuality Clinics – Peel Public Health. Peel Public Health Healthy Sexuality Clinics
- Peel Region Services. Vaccinations – including HPV in school-based programs. Peel Public Health Vaccinations & HPV Program
- Ontario.ca. Cervical cancer screening and prevention. Ontario Cervical Cancer Screening & Prevention Guide
