News Release
For Immediate Release: January 12, 2010
Contact Person: Sharon Rounds, RN, 301-334-7692
Pass the Word: Cervical Cancer is Preventable
January is Cervical Health Month
Of all cancers that affect women, cervical cancer is one of the most preventable. Yet, an estimated 70 women in Maryland will die because of cervical cancer this year. Join the Garrett County Health Department this month and pass the word: Cervical Cancer is Preventable.
Cervical cancer is the cancer that affects the cervix, which is found at the lowest part of a woman's uterus. Cancer of the cervix usually forms slowly, as abnormal cells begin to change into a pre-cancerous state. If undetected and untreated, these abnormal cells can become cancer. 99% of cervical cancer cases are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV), a group of viruses that can cause changes in the cells of the cervix.
Cervical cancer can be prevented. When pre-cancerous cells are found with a Pap test, they are treatable and cervical cancer can be prevented. During the Pap test, a small sample of cells is taken from the cervix and checked under a microscope for abnormal cells. This simple test should be done regularly for women who are (or have been) sexually active and for all women who are older than 21 years of age. Remember, regular Pap tests can find cancer before it starts!
Additionally, two HPV vaccines have been approved for use in the United States for females 10 to 25 years of age. These vaccines have been shown to prevent the types of HPV infection that lead to cervical cancer.
With regular Pap test screenings for women and the HPV vaccine, we can save lives in Maryland . Take the month of January to pass the word!
The Garrett County Breast and Cervical Cancer Program offers Pap test screenings for eligible women who may not be able to afford them. Please call Sharon Rounds, RN, at 301-334-7692 or 301-895-3111 for more information.