Cervical Health Awareness Month
January 26, 2023
Cervical Health Awareness Month
Never heard of Cervical Health Awareness Month? It is generally observed in January to raise awareness about the importance of cervical health and the ways to prevent cervical cancer.
The cervix is the lower, narrow end of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It plays a vital role in a woman's reproductive health. However, cervical cancer among women is the 4th most common cancer and is one of the most preventable types of cancer. (World Health Organization, 2022)
One of the most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer is through regular screenings, such as the Pap test and the HPV test. The Pap test looks for abnormal cells on the cervix that could lead to cancer, called precancers. (American Cancer Society) The HPV test looks for the Human Papillomavirus, which is a significant cause of cervical cancer, because the virus can change the cells in the cervix. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022)
Professionals recommend that women start getting regular Pap tests at age 21 and continue until age 65. This means getting screened every 3 to 5 years. Women who are over 30 years old can also get the HPV test along with the Pap test to detect a virus, Human Papillomavirus, that can cause cervical cancer. (U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, 2016)
In addition to regular screenings, there are other ways to reduce the risk of cervical cancer. These include getting vaccinated against HPV, practicing safe sex, not smoking, and maintaining a healthy diet and weight. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020)
It's important to remember that In the early stages of cervical cancer, there are often no symptoms, which is why regular screenings are so important. If it goes unnoticed because the individual had no screenings, it can grow into a dangerous cancer. If cervical cancer is found early, it can be treated effectively. (National Cancer Institute, 2021)
Cervical Health Awareness Month serves as a reminder to take control of our cervical health and to stay informed about the ways to prevent cervical cancer. Make sure to schedule your next Pap test and talk to your healthcare provider about your risk factors for cervical cancer.
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer and can be treated effectively if found early. Regular screenings, getting vaccinations, having safe sex practices,maintaining a healthy diet and weight, and avoiding smoking are some ways to reduce cervical cancer risks. Take control of your cervical health and stay informed about how to prevent cervical cancer.
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References:
American Cancer Society. (2021). Cervical Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cervical-cancer.html
U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. (2016). Cervical Cancer: Screening. Retrieved from https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/cervical-cancer-screening
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). HPV Vaccines. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/hpv/vaccines/index.html
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, December 14). What should I know about cervical cancer screening? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/cervical/basic_info/screening.htm#:~:text=The%20HPV%20test%20looks%20for,they%20are%20not%20treated%20appropriately.
National Cancer Institute. (2021). Cervical Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/types/cervical