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Dear Memphis Roundtable Members, |
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Coming Together to Protect Our Community from HPV Cancers |
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The month of March has entailed many opportunities for the Memphis and Shelby County HPV Cancer Prevention Roundtable. We recognized HPV Awareness Day on March 4, which was a moment that spotlighted the power of vaccination, education, and collective action. March also is International Women’s Month, offering another meaningful opportunity to honor the women and families most impacted by HPV cancers and to reaffirm our dedication to reducing these preventable cancers.
This month also brought partners together for the Roundtable’s 2026 Mid‑Year Meeting—a meaningful checkpoint to reflect on our collective progress, look ahead to upcoming priorities, and shape the work ahead. As part of this effort, members are encouraged to share their perspectives by completing the Membership and Engagement Survey, which will close on April 7—this is the final opportunity to provide your input.
Together, we look forward to continued progress in HPV cancer prevention across our community.
In this edition, we cover:
- Fact or Myth: Separate HPV Fact from Fiction
- What’s Happening with the Memphis Roundtable
- 2026 Mid-year Meeting Recap
- Partner Updates
- Upcoming Events
If you have any ideas and/or questions, please reach out to Akeria Taylor with the St. Jude HPV Cancer Prevention Program at akeria.taylor@stjude.org. |
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Fact or Myth: Separate HPV Facts from Fiction |
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Myth: HPV is more common in women.
Fact: HPV is more common in men, but because there is only a test for women, people mistakenly think HPV only affects women. Oropharyngeal cancer is the most common type of HPV cancer in the U.S., and about 85% of oropharyngeal cancer cases occur in men.
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What’s Happening with the Memphis Roundtable? |
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How We Recognized HPV Awareness Day on March 4 |
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International HPV Awareness Day is observed annually on March 4 to bring global awareness to HPV prevention. Since 2018, HPV Awareness Day has continued to highlight that while HPV is common, it can lead to six types of cancers, most of which are highly preventable with on-time HPV vaccination.
In honor of HPV Awareness Day this year and in celebration of its five-year anniversary, the St. Jude HPV Cancer Prevention Program released a series of seminars that highlights core program areas and the people and partnerships driving measurable improvements in HPV vaccination coverage locally in Memphis and Shelby County, Tennessee, regionally across the Southeast, and nationally in the United States.
The seminars spotlight efforts to prevent HPV cancers with rural communities, the HPV Vaccination Roundtable of the Southeast, progress in Memphis and Shelby County, Survivor Proud, and the role of NCI-Designated Cancer Centers in advancing HPV cancer prevention. Together, these sessions reflect the power of collaboration in strengthening prevention, expanding access, and protecting future generations.
Access the 2026 HPV Awareness Day Seminar Series here. |
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It’s Our Way in Memphis: Advancing HPV Cancer Prevention Together Seminar |
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In recognition of HPV Awareness Day, the St. Jude HPV Cancer Prevention Program and the Memphis Roundtable released the seminar, “It’s Our Way in Memphis: Advancing HPV Cancer Prevention Together” as part of the 2026 St. Jude HPV Awareness Day Seminar Series. This seminar spotlights efforts to advance HPV cancer prevention in Memphis and Shelby County by exploring local data trends, sharing effective communication strategies, and emphasizing the power of collaborative community partnerships. The seminar features Memphis Roundtable leaders, Michelle Bowden, MD, who serves as an Associate Professor at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and Medical Director of the Eating Disorder Clinic at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital and Sonia Thomas, DNP, Chief of Nursing at the Shelby County Health Department and Memphis Roundtable Chair-Elect.
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| Watch the Seminar |
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2026 Mid-year Meeting Recap |
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The Memphis Roundtable hosted its 2026 Mid‑Year Meeting on March 24, bringing together partners for a morning of collaboration and shared learning. The convening brought together nearly 50 attendees, reflecting our community’s continued commitment to advancing HPV cancer prevention across Memphis and Shelby County.
This year’s keynote address was delivered by Deanna Kepka, PhD, MPH, of the University of Utah’s College of Nursing and Huntsman Cancer Institute. Dr. Kepka—founder and leader of the 500‑member Mountain West HPV Vaccination Coalition and Director of Global and International Health—shared insights on national and global progress toward eliminating cervical cancer and other HPV cancers. Her presentation highlighted emerging strategies, current momentum, and the collective efforts needed to continue driving vaccination coverage forward.
The meeting also featured an incredible data presentation from Caitlin Newhouse, MD, Medical Director of the Vaccine‑Preventable Diseases and Immunization Program at the Tennessee Department of Health, highlighting recent HPV vaccination trends across Tennessee, Memphis, and Shelby County. Her update underscored encouraging local progress, with HPV vaccination coverage among youth ages 11–17 in Memphis and Shelby County rising to 48.2%—an increase of nearly seven percent from March 2025. These gains reflect the collective efforts of partners across the community and reinforce the momentum driving our shared prevention goals.
The interactive meeting also provided space for Memphis Roundtable members and partners to discuss next steps to strengthen local HPV cancer prevention initiatives, foster cross-sector collaboration, and to map out priorities for the remainder of 2026. There’s still time to share your input on our 2026 priorities through the Membership and Engagement Survey, which will remain open until April 7. |
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Boots on the Ground: Bringing HPV Prevention Directly to You |
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This month, the Memphis Roundtable officially kicked off its clinic outreach initiative—meeting directly with pediatricians, health centers, and community organizations to reinforce a powerful message: HPV vaccination starting at age 9 is one of our strongest tools for cancer prevention.
By visiting clinics across the city, our goal is simple—support providers with the resources, education, and patient focused tools they need to confidently start early HPV vaccination conversations. From evidence based talking points to parent friendly materials, the Memphis Roundtable is here to make implementation easier and more impactful.
One of our first stops was Memphis Health Center, where we met with Brinder Jones, MD, a tremendous supporter of our mission. Her enthusiasm reflects the growing momentum across Memphis to protect our youth and strengthen community health.
As our outreach continues, we’re excited to partner with even more clinics and organizations dedicated to preventing HPV cancers! |
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It’s Our Way in Memphis Communication Materials Available |
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The Memphis Roundtable offers a full collection of co-brandable communication materials through the It’s Our Way in Memphis. This includes postcards, posters, social media graphics, and banners designed to support HPV vaccination outreach across our community. These resources are designed to help elevate your efforts and ensure consistent, community-centered messaging.
If you and your team would like to use or cobrand items from the It’s Our Way in Memphis collection, or request printed copies, simply click the buttons below to get started. All materials are available at no cost and include customizable, brand ready designs that make it easy to promote HPV vaccination across Memphis and Shelby County. |
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Training Health Care Providers and Professionals |
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As part of efforts to increase on-time HPV vaccination and prevent HPV cancers, the HPV Cancer Prevention Program at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital offers the Announcement Approach Training (AAT). The AAT promotes strong provider recommendations by training health care providers and professionals to improve HPV vaccination coverage.The AAT is an evidence-based strategy to recommend HPV vaccination and increase HPV vaccination coverage developed by researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The training is available at no cost. To request training, email PreventHPV@stjude.org. |
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Cumberland Pediatric Foundation Memphis Roundtable Recap |
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The Cumberland Pediatric Foundation hosted its Memphis Roundtable Dinner on March 5, bringing together pediatric physicians, providers, and practice managers for an evening of connection and collaboration. Attendees shared insights, discussed challenges, and explored strategies to strengthen pediatric practice operations across West Tennessee.
A key highlight of the evening was an introduction to the Memphis and Shelby County HPV Cancer Prevention Roundtable. Participants learned about opportunities to get involved, upcoming initiatives, and the range of resources available to support HPV vaccination and cancer prevention efforts within their clinics. The event offered a welcoming space for providers to network, exchange ideas, and discover tools designed to enhance patient care and community health. |
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Register for the 2026 Immunization Provider Expo (Virtual) |
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Tennessee Department of Health’s Vaccine-Preventable Diseases and Immunization Program (VPDIP) excited to invite you to the 4th Annual Immunization Provider Expo, taking place virtually on April 14 from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Following the Expo, an optional VFC training session which qualifies for annual VFC education credit will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 3 p.m. This year’s theme, “Restoring Trust in Vaccines”, highlights how emotional storytelling, community engagement, and data-driven insights can help rebuild public confidence in vaccinations.
*Participants who attend the Expo will be eligible for nursing contact hours* |
| Register Here |
Celebrate Immunization Leaders Across the Nation |
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The Association of Immunization Managers (AIM) has opened nominations for the 2026 Immunization Champion Awards, honoring individuals who significantly advance vaccination in their communities. One Champion is selected from every U.S. state, major city program, D.C., and select territories. Nominees may include clinicians, coalition members, parents, and advocates. AIM offers a comprehensive toolkit to guide nominations and celebrate local leaders strengthening vaccine confidence and access. |
| Learn More |
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St. Jude HPV Cancer Prevention Program Celebrates 5 Years |
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The St. Jude HPV Cancer Prevention Program is celebrating five years of impactful work. The program was established through the vision of St. Jude leadership and researchers who saw the critical need to prevent cancers caused by HPV. Their efforts focus on increasing access to a safe, effective vaccine that protects against six types of HPV cancers later in life.
The program’s work is especially significant in communities where HPV cancer burden is highest—often the same communities St. Jude serves through its pediatric cancer mission. As the only National Cancer Institute (NCI)- designated Comprehensive Cancer Center dedicated solely to children, St. Jude continues to play a vital role in improving vaccination coverage and reducing future cancer risk. Driven by strong scientific evidence and a commitment to community partnerships, the St. Jude HPV Cancer Prevention Program remains focused on expanding its reach and advancing a shared vision: a future free of HPV cancers.
Learn more at stjude.org/HPV. |
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HPV Vaccination Roundtable of the Southeast 2026 In-Person Annual Meeting |
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The HPV Vaccination Roundtable of the Southeast hosted its 2026 in person annual meeting on March 9–10 at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis. Partners from 12 states and two jurisdictions gathered to reconnect, share updates, and advance collective efforts in HPV cancer prevention across the region.
This year’s discussions focused on the Southeast Roundtable’s three regional priority actions:
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Communication – expanding the It’s Our Way Down South campaign to strengthen culturally resonant HPV vaccination messaging.
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Elimination – advancing the Southeast U.S. Call to Action to eliminate HPV cancers, beginning with cervical cancer.
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Start at Age 9 – accelerating efforts to improve on-time HPV vaccination starting at age 9.
Representatives from Tennessee contributed meaningfully to the discussions, helping shape conversations around best practices, community engagement, and strategies to improve HPV vaccination rates statewide and across the Southeast.
Tennessee partners are strongly encouraged to join the Southeast Roundtable and take an active role in advancing HPV cancer prevention across our state. Members can participate in implementation teams, contribute to priority action areas, and help accelerate progress in communication, elimination, and early start vaccination efforts. |
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Upcoming Events |
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April 1-30
Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month
April 30 | 1-2:15 p.m. Central Time
Start at Age 9 and Other Best Practices: Accelerate efforts to start HPV vaccination at age 9
Register here
May 14 | noon-1:00 p.m. Central Time
Improving Rural HPV Vaccination Coverage Rural Quarterly Updates Meeting
Register here
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Learn More about the Memphis and Shelby County HPV Cancer Prevention Roundtable |
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The Memphis and Shelby County HPV Cancer Prevention Roundtable, established in 2021, is a collaboration of health care, community, and advocacy partners with a mission to measurably increase HPV vaccination coverage in Memphis and Shelby County, Tennessee.
The St. Jude HPV Cancer Prevention Program provides support for the Roundtable. To learn more about the Roundtable or join our efforts, please visit stjude.org/memphis-roundtable. If you have organizational or member information we should highlight in our communications, please contact us at PreventHPV@stjude.org. |
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