President of Georgia NOW and founder of the Susan Jolly Foundation Triana Arnold-James joined The "Wake Up With Dee Morning Show" to discuss cervical cancer awareness, prevention, and an advocacy event at the Georgia State Capitol.
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, and Ms. Arnold-James Marked the occasion with the 11th Annual Cervical Cancer Awareness Day that took place Thursday, Jan. 15 at 11:30 a.m. at the Georgia State Capitol. The annual event brought together lawmakers, medical professionals, advocates, and community members to address disparities in prevention, education, and access to care.
Ms. Arnold-James founded the Susan Jolly Foundation in honor of her close friend Susan Jolly, who died from cervical cancer. Since then, the organization has worked to raise awareness about cervical cancer, promote routine screenings, and advocate for broader access to the HPV vaccine.
Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers that is considered preventable, yet Black women continue to die from the disease at significantly higher rates than white women. Health experts attribute this disparity to limited access to preventive care, late diagnosis, and lack of accurate information about HPV and routine screenings.
“Cervical cancer is the one cancer that is 100 percent preventable,” Ms. Arnold-James said during the interview.
The human papillomavirus, commonly known as HPV, is the leading cause of cervical cancer and affects both women and men. While HPV often clears on its own, certain strains can lead to cervical, throat, anal, and other cancers if left untreated. Ms. Arnold-James emphasized that HPV is not limited to women and stressed the importance of vaccinating both boys and girls.
The HPV vaccine is most effective when administered early, beginning at age 9, though adults under 44 may still receive it. In addition to vaccination, routine Pap smears play a critical role in detecting cervical cancer at early, treatable stages.
Ms. Arnold-James also highlighted ongoing health inequities in underserved communities, noting that many lack access to vaccines, screenings, and follow-up care. She said legislative action and community engagement are essential to closing those gaps.
In addition to education and advocacy, the Susan Jolly Foundation hosts medical professionals at its annual Capitol event to provide continuing education opportunities and recognize community leaders working to promote cervical cancer awareness.
Ms. Arnold-James encouraged residents to attend the Capitol gathering or participate virtually and urged individuals to prioritize preventive care.
“If you haven’t had a Pap smear or your child hasn’t received the HPV vaccine, please do it,” she said.
To listen to the full interview, click the link above.