By Emily Miller
The month of January is designated as Cervical Health Awareness Month, which is a chance to raise awareness about how women can protect themselves from HPV (Human Papillomavirus) and cervical cancer.
Each year in the U.S. approximately 12,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer, and more than 4,000 die as a result, according to the National Cervical Cancer Coalition (NCCC) and American Sexual Health Association (ASHA).
The numbers are even more sobering globally; approximately 80 percent of deaths from cervical cancers occur in the developing world. In both the U.S. and around the world, the disease disproportionately impacts poor women.
The good news is that cervical cancer is highly preventable – when appropriate measures have been taken.
“Cervical cancer is preventable through vaccines and screening tests. Making sure these tools reach the most vulnerable women is critical, of course, but so are efforts to educate women about the disease,” said ASHA/NCCC President and CEO Lynn B. Barclays. “Accurate, culturally-sensitive information and access to care are an unbeatable combination.”
It’s also important to reach out to health care providers who will educate potential vaccine candidates.
According to the NCCC and ASHA, only about 35 percent of girls and young women who are eligible for these vaccines have completed the three-dose series.
Vaccine effectiveness is statistically high – when used correctly and taken during the appropriate age ranges. In addition, new studies and reports are continually being conducted each year to further increase effectiveness.
The Centers for Disease Control Prevention (CDC) provides a detailed list on who should get vaccinated, when they should get it and all other general questions.
“Parents are strongly influenced by the recommendations of the family doctor or nurse, so we’ll continue developing cervical cancer information and counseling tools designed specifically for health professionals,” said Barclays.
Cervical cancer prevention can also be achieved through regular screening tests (called Pap tests) and follow-up care.
A Pap test can help detect abnormal (changed) cells early, before they have turned cancerous. Most cervical cancer-related deaths can be prevented if women regularly get these tests as well as follow-up care.
The CDC recommends women should start getting Pap test at age 21 and every three years until the age of 65.
Regular, precautionary measures can make a monumental difference on one’s health as well as insurance premiums. So, take time out this month, contact your regular physician and get an annual check, which may also include a Pep test.
