Cervical cancer: Key insights every employer should understand

Supporting employees’ health and wellbeing means understanding the conditions that may affect them and the steps that can reduce risk. Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer, yet many people remain unsure about what causes it, what symptoms to recognise, and how screening helps. 

To help employers navigate this important topic, we’ve working with our cancer support partner Perci Health, drawing on the clinical expertise of Rachel Rawson, Lead Cancer Nurse Specialist, to outline what every organisation should know.  

Why cervical cancer awareness matters at work 

In its early stages, cervical cancer often causes no symptoms – which means prevention and early detection are crucial.  

Anyone with a cervix can develop cervical cancer. It is most common among people aged 30 – 35, though it can occur at any age. This includes many trans men and non-binary people, unless they have had surgery to remove the cervix. Trans women do not require screening.  

By understanding the risk factors and promoting regular cervical screening among your workforce, you can help employees access the care they need sooner and reduce the likelihood of serious long-term illness or potentially life-threatening outcomes. 

What causes cervical cancer? 

The primary cause of cervical cancer is high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is extremely common and is passed on through close skin-to-skin contact – typically during sexual activity. Most HPV types are harmless, but some can cause abnormal cell changes that may develop into cancer if not treated. 

Other factors that may increase risk include: 

• Smoking – which reduces the body’s ability to clear HPV. 

• Being overweight or obese – which may contribute to long-term cell changes in the cervix. 

• A weakened immune system – for example, due to certain medical conditions or treatments. 

For employers, this highlights the importance of proactive health education and access to expert support when employees need guidance or reassurance. 

Key symptoms employees should be aware of 

Although cervical cancer may not present symptoms in the early stages, it’s important to encourage employees to speak to their GP if they notice: 

• Unusual vaginal bleeding – including after sex, between periods, or after menopause 

• Changes in vaginal discharge  

• Pain or discomfort during sex 

• Unexplained pain in the lower back or pelvis 

These symptoms can be caused by many conditions, not just cancer, but early assessment can make a significant difference to outcomes. 

The role of cervical screening (smear tests) 

Cervical screening is one of the most effective tools for preventing cervical cancer. It does not test for cancer. Instead, it checks for high-risk HPV and identifies abnormal cells early so they can be treated before they become cancerous. 

In the UK, anyone with a cervix aged 25 to 64 is invited for routine screening: 

• 25-49: every 3 years 

• 50-64: every 5 years 

Employers can make a measurable difference by encouraging attendance and offering flexibility for appointments. 

HPV vaccination 

The HPV vaccine protects against the most common high-risk strains of the virus. It is routinely offered to children aged 12-13, but people who missed it may still be eligible, including: 

• Women under 25 

• Men born after 1 September 2006 

• Men under 45 who have sex with men and attend a sexual health clinic 

Promoting vaccination as part of your wider wellbeing strategy can help protect the future health of your workforce. 

How Healix and Perci Health support your people 

Cervical cancer prevention and early detection rely on awareness, education, and timely access to expert advice. Through our partnership with Perci Health, employees have access to specialist cancer nurses, evidence-based guidance, and practical support whenever they need it. 

Together, we help organisations: 

• Strengthen their health and wellbeing strategies 

• Provide clinically led guidance to employees 

• Improve early detection and reduce the risk of avoidable illness 

For HR teams, their means confidence that your people have access to trusted expertise at the right time – delivered through partners who specialise in cancer prevention, personalised support and whole-people care.