By Heriberto Perez–Zuñiga

RIO GRANDE VALLEY, TEXAS – JAN. 21, 2026 – Every year, more than 300,000 women worldwide die from a disease that is almost entirely preventable.

In the Rio Grande Valley, the rates are even higher.

According to the National Cancer Institute, cervical cancer rates in the Valley are about 55% higher than the national average, making it one of the region's most urgent public health challenges. That’s more than half of the nation's average.

Yet Dr. Subhash Chauhan, director of the UTRGV School of Medicine's South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, says there is good reason for hope.

"Cervical cancer doesn't have to be a death sentence," he said. "Through education, research and action, we're working to ensure that women in our community have access to life-saving resources. There are effective ways to treat and prevent it."

PREVENTION IS POSSIBLE

Cervical cancer begins in the cells of the cervix, often caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of the human papillomavirus, known as HPV. Without early detection and treatment, it can spread to other parts of the body.

According to the World Health Organization, one in 78 women will be diagnosed with cervical cancer in their lifetime.

In Texas, border regions like the Rio Grande Valley experience some of the highest mortality rates, with many women facing barriers to preventive care such as Pap smears and HPV vaccinations.

"Early detection through regular screenings and prevention through HPV vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of cervical cancer," Chauhan said. "Unfortunately, for many women in the Valley, access to these resources remains a challenge." 

The Valley faces some of the highest rates of chronic diseases, including liver, gallbladder and cervical cancers, compounded by factors such as prolonged stress, obesity and diabetes. With nearly one-fourth, or 25%, of families living below the poverty line in the area, healthcare access remains a significant barrier for many.

RESEARCH AND ACTION

At the UTRGV School of Medicine’s South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, researchers are investigating HPV genotypes and immune responses in Valley women and are working to develop tailored strategies for preventing and treating cervical cancer. 

"The research being conducted here at the UTRGV School of Medicine will help us address the urgent health needs we face," Chauhan said. "Like many other illnesses in the region, the actual rates of cancer may be underreported because individuals without health insurance or financial means often don't seek the necessary services or diagnoses." 

The UTRGV School of Medicine launched the Cervical Cancer Prevention Action Network, to align with the World Health Organization (WHO)'s global mission to eliminate cervical cancer.

The initiative focuses on community education and emphasizes the importance of HPV vaccinations and routine screenings.

Despite the challenges, Chauhan said, advancing early detection and treatment methods are helping.

"The fight against cervical cancer is far from over, but we're making progress," he said. "We have the tools and knowledge to prevent this disease. Now, it's about ensuring everyone has access to them." 

To learn more about the South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, visit www.utrgv.edu/school-of-medicine/departments/st-cecr.