Cervical Cancer Awareness Month: Radiation oncologist shares 5 ways to reduce cervical cancer risk in your 20s

Healthy daily habits for women in their 20s to lower cervical cancer risk include getting the HPV vaccine, attending regular screenings, and making healthy lifestyle choices.

Cervical Cancer Awareness Month 2026: Cervical cancer is a health concern for women around the world, especially in developing countries. In India, one in five cervical cancer cases occurs, which is the second most common cancer among women in India and the second most common cancer for women aged 15 to 44, according to the Annals of the National Academy of Medical Sciences and a report from the National Institutes of Health. Cervical cancer makes up 6-29% of all cancers in Indian women as per GLOBOCAN 2020.

Is cervical cancer 100% curable? What are the 5 cervical cancer screening methods? (Shutterstock)

By Tavishi Dogra

Tavishi Dogra is a Deputy Chief Content Producer, Health & Wellness, at Hindustan Times. She has over 9 years of experience writing about fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, translating medical research and expert insights into practical advice readers can trust.

Career journey and experience
Tavishi began her health journalism journey in 2017, and has since reported for RSTV, Financial Express, Jagran, HT Media Labs and Zee. She joined Hindustan Times to simplify wellness subjects by cutting through jargon.

From decoding health trends and interviewing doctors to testing fitness routines herself, Tavishi always approaches content with one filter: “Will this help someone make a better decision today?”

Subject expertise
With 9+ years tracking India’s health conversations, Tavishi knows the gap between clinical advice and daily life. She knows fads from fundamentals and curates science-backed, expert-recommended solutions.

In fitness, she breaks down bodyweight training, recovery, and posture fixes for desk-bound readers. In nutrition, she translates guidelines into affordable, desi meal tweaks. In mental well-being, she focuses on stigma-free, actionable tools — all backed by research, expert input, and lived context.

Education and professional background
Tavishi holds a Master’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication and began her career reporting on public affairs for broadcast. Those early years in policy and TV shaped how she writes today: fast, factual, and human-first.

Editorial Philosophy
I write with one single goal: To simplify health in a world full of noise by finding what’s actually doable, safe, and evidence-based for my readers. I test claims against research and user experiences. When all else fails, I speak to the expert who sees 50 patients a day, not the one with the most followers.

Read moreRead less

Cervical cancer can be prevented, diagnosed early, and treated effectively. Unlike many other cancers, it can often be cured if caught early. "As a cancer specialist, I often meet women diagnosed with cervical cancer in their 30s or 40s who tell me the same thing: 'I didn’t realise I needed to think about this so early.' The truth is, your 20s are one of the most critical decades to actively reduce your risk of cervical cancer. The choices you make now can significantly impact your long-term health," Dr Durva Kurkure, Radiation & Gynaecological Oncologist, HCG Cancer Centre, Borivali, tells Health Shots.

How to prevent cervical cancer in your 20s?

Let’s look at practical steps women in their 20s can take to reduce their risk of cervical cancer.

1. Prioritise HPV vaccination

Getting vaccinated against Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in your 20s is important because certain types of this virus can cause cervical cancer. "Although it is best to get vaccinated before becoming sexually active, it’s still a good idea even if you already are; the vaccine can still protect you against HPV strains you may already have", says the doctor. Talk to your healthcare provider about whether the vaccine is right for you, and don’t let myths stop you from taking this.

2. Don’t skip your screening tests

Regular screenings, especially the Pap smear and HPV tests, are critical. Many young women avoid these tests because they feel uncomfortable or embarrassed, which can lead to serious problems. Cervical cancer often develops without symptoms. Dr Kurkure suggests that "women have their first Pap smear at age 21 and continue regular screening as recommended by their doctor. Finding cervical cancer early can improve treatment success and allow for a cure."

3. Embrace a healthy lifestyle

Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains helps your immune system fight off HPV and other infections. "Staying at a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and managing stress are also important for your overall health and can lower your risk of many cancers. If you smoke, think about quitting," says the expert. Smoking makes it harder for your immune system to combat HPV infections, which can lead to cervical cancer.

4. Sexual health awareness

When it comes to sexual health, not knowing about it can be harmful. It's important to practice safe sex. This means using protection like condoms and having fewer sexual partners. "Talk openly with your partner(s) about sexual health to build trust and responsibility. If you notice any unusual symptoms, such as bleeding after sex or severe pain, see your healthcare provider," says the radiation oncologist. While these symptoms may not mean cancer, they should be checked out.

5. Knowledge and awareness

Learn and help others learn about cervical health. Share information about the importance of HPV vaccination and regular screenings. Encourage friends and family to talk openly about women’s health.

(Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.)