In this special Cervical Cancer Awareness Month episode, Dr. Prerana Rudrapatna and Loreen Wales bring much-needed clarity and compassion to a topic that too often goes unspoken.

Dr. Rudrapatna, a Medical Health Liaison, shares insights into the clinical and systemic realities around HPV and cervical cancer—from gaps in screening and education to how stigma still prevents many people from seeking care. She breaks down the importance of the HPV vaccine, why early screening matters, and how equity in healthcare needs more than just policy—it needs honest conversation.

Loreen Wales, CEO of My Viva Plan, approaches the issue from a holistic health perspective. With a focus on personalized, sustainable lifestyle strategies, she discusses how foundational health and empowered decision-making play a role in prevention and recovery. Loreen also speaks to the importance of accessible resources that meet people where they're at—mentally, physically, and emotionally.

Together, they unpack what it means to live in a society where sexual health is still seen as taboo, and where cervical cancer is often misunderstood. They offer practical, science-backed knowledge for anyone who wants to better understand the human papillomavirus (HPV), the tools we have to prevent it, and how to advocate for yourself and others.

This is a grounded and thoughtful conversation about health literacy, body autonomy, and breaking down the barriers that keep people silent. It's about normalizing the conversation—because cervical cancer is preventable, and knowledge is power.

LINKS FROM THIS EPISODE

• My Viva Plan

• HPV Vaccine Info - Canada

• Screening for Life - Alberta

• World Health Organization: HPV & Cervical Cancer