The South Carolina Cancer Alliance continues to explore innovative ways to engage communities in cancer prevention, and Paint for Prevention is a powerful example of that work in action.

Paint for Prevention is an HPV awareness and HPV elimination initiative that combines creativity, education, and community engagement through a fun and interactive paint-and-sip experience. Designed as a mocktail-based event, participants are invited to relax, create art, and engage in meaningful conversations about Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and its connection to multiple cancers.

At the heart of this initiative is a simple but important message:

HPV vaccination is cancer prevention.

By increasing awareness and understanding of HPV, we can help protect children, adolescents, and adults from cancers caused by the virus.

What Participants Learn

Through this unique experience, participants learn about:

-HPV and its connection to several types of cancer
-The importance of the HPV vaccine as a cancer prevention tool
-The role of routine screenings, including Pap tests, in early detection
-Steps individuals and families can take to protect their health

By creating a relaxed and welcoming environment, Paint for Prevention helps remove fear and stigma, allowing participants to engage in conversations about health in a way that feels approachable, supportive, and empowering.

Mother's Day Paint for Prevention Event

In May 2026, the South Carolina Cancer Alliance hosted a special Paint for Prevention event in celebration of Mother's Day, bringing together mothers, daughters, and women for a meaningful and memorable experience.

While the event focused on women's health and cervical cancer awareness, it also served as an important opportunity to expand conversations about HPV prevention and the role vaccination plays in reducing cancer risk.

A highlight of the event was a presentation from Dr. Xavier Carter of Prisma Health, an OB-GYN who provided valuable education on cervical cancer prevention, including the importance of routine Pap smears and HPV vaccination. Her discussion helped break down complex health topics into clear, relatable information and encouraged participants to take proactive steps to protect their health.

Building Awareness Through Creativity

Paint for Prevention demonstrates that cancer education can be both impactful and engaging. By combining art, conversation, and trusted medical expertise, the initiative creates meaningful opportunities to connect communities with life-saving information.

As the program continues to grow, the South Carolina Cancer Alliance remains committed to expanding Paint for Prevention events across the state, reaching more communities and helping individuals of all ages and backgrounds understand the importance of HPV vaccination, screening, and prevention.

Bring Paint for Prevention to Your Community

We invite community organizations, schools, healthcare providers, and community partners across South Carolina to collaborate with us in hosting a Paint for Prevention event.

Together, we can raise awareness, promote HPV vaccination, encourage preventive care, and take meaningful steps toward reducing the burden of cancer for future generations.