MOBILE, Alabama (Jan. 13, 2026) — To continue to advance efforts to eliminate cervical cancer, USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute (MCI) hosted the 2026 WIPE OUT Cervical Cancer Summit Jan. 9, bringing together health leaders and community partners from across the state. Partners included the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) and the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH).
Held on the campus of the University of South Alabama, the summit is part of OPERATION WIPE OUT, a statewide initiative focused on ending cervical cancer as a public health problem through education, prevention and improved access to HPV vaccination, screening, follow-up care and treatment. Alabama is the first and only state in the nation to have a comprehensive cervical cancer elimination plan.
Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is the primary cause of cervical cancer and several other cancers. Health officials estimate there is an 85% chance of HPV infection during a person’s lifetime. Approximately one in four men and one in five women are infected with high-risk HPV types known to cause cancer…