Free Pap smears coming next month

Women across the Virgin Islands will have access to free Pap smear screenings next month through the 2026 Empower You initiative spearheaded by cervical cancer survivor Arliene Penn.

In conjunction with the ongoing January observance of Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, the initiative will also feature educational efforts designed to promote women’s health.

“This is my fifth year hosting this initiative and my sixth year publicly encouraging women to get screened regularly,” said Ms. Penn, a former Mrs. BVI who serves as an ambassador for the non-profit WINBVI. “My commitment to this work remains deep, because early detection continues to save lives.”

The Empower You project — which is also supported by Unite BVI, the Rotary Club of Tortola and the BVI Cancer Society — encourages women throughout the territory to prioritise routine cervical cancer screenings, according to a press release issued Monday by WINBVI.

Ms. Penn noted that cervical cancer is one of the most preventable life-threatening cancers affecting women worldwide.

In alignment with guidance from the World Health Organisation, she stressed that education, routine screening and vaccination are the most effective tools for saving lives.

Free screenings in February

Free Pap smear screenings will be offered throughout February at clinics including the BVI Health Services Authority, The Wellness Centre Clinics, B&F Medical Complex and Eureka Medical Clinic.

Registration opened on Thursday and continues through this month.

Eligible women are required to call or WhatsApp 440-4122 to register and select a preferred clinic. Participating clinics will then contact registrants to schedule appointments between Feb. 1 and 28. All appointments include a free consultation, and there is no co-pay required under National Health Insurance.

The initiative is open to women aged 18-65 who are sexually active and have not had a Pap smear in the past three years.

Education

This year, Ms. Penn is placing increased emphasis on reproductive health education, particularly around cervical cancer risks and prevention.

“Each year we assess the gaps, and what we continue to find is the need to share more comprehensive information about cervical cancer — its causes, risk factors, stages and the importance of regular screening,” Ms. Penn said.

Education efforts will focus in part on human papillomavirus (HPV), a common infection that can cause cervical changes and cancer if not detected early.

The programme will also address other risk factors, including smoking, weakened immune systems, multiple partners, delayed or irregular screening, and lack of follow-up care.

With the assistance of gynaecologists, the initiative will also educate women about the stages of cervical cancer and the benefits of early detection.

‘Call to action’

WINBVI President Alicia Green described the initiative as a “call to action.”

“We remain steadfast in our mission to empower women to live healthier, fuller lives,” she said.

UNITE BVI Executive Director Kim Takeuchi said her organisation has supported the effort since its inception.

“By continuing our partnership with WINBVI, we aim to empower women across the Virgin Islands to secure their health and future through informed, proactive care,” she said.

Throughout this month, the campaign will feature discussions with gynaecologists, public appearances with women’s groups, and interviews on media platforms.