I reflect on my grandmother’s death from pancreatic cancer, emphasizing its deadliness due to late diagnosis and lack of screening. With only a 13% five-year survival rate, risk factors like smoking, obesity, and diabetes are highlighted. The author advocates for prevention, acknowledging the challenges without blaming their grandmother.

The HPV vaccine is a significant tool in cancer prevention, capable of preventing over 90% of cancers linked to HPV. Studies show it drastically lowers the risk of cervical cancer when administered before age 17. Ensuring widespread access to this vaccine is crucial for maximizing its life-saving potential.