Cervical Cancer Prevention in Individuals With Criminal Legal System Involvement

Abstract

Objectives Women with a history of criminal legal system involvement have cervical cancer rates that are 4–5 times higher than the general population—a disparity that has persisted for nearly 50 years. Our objective is to describe the intersection of mass incarceration in the United States and risk factors for cervical cancer to offer equitable prevention and treatment strategies for the field. Results A group was convened by American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology members and experts in the field to address a topic of importance relevant to cervical cancer elimination in underserved groups. This topic has received consistent attention from the American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology. After convening multiple times to discuss salient issues on the topic, the group proposed 12 specific recommendations related to vaccination, screening, treatment, practice, research, and policy to address the burden of cervical cancer among individuals with criminal legal system involvement. Discussion At least 10% of the incarcerated population is at risk for cervical cancer. Clinicians in all areas of practice will encounter patients with incarceration histories or current incarceration, regularly throughout their careers. Conclusions Clinicians who provide preventive care for people at risk of cervical cancer can play a critical role in eliminating disparities for this vulnerable population, by drawing on these expert recommendations.