January News

Every year in the United States, January is designated as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. The purpose of this month is to increase awareness of this particular cancer and the importance of vaccination and early detection. According to the National Cervical Cancer Coalition, "nearly 13,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year, but the disease is virtually always preventable with vaccination and appropriate screening." 

The human papillomavirus (HPV) three vaccine series helps protect females from several HPV infections that are known to cause cervical cancer. Although the vaccines do not protect against all HPV infections linked to cervical cancer, according to the MD Anderson Cancer Center, "The HPV vaccine has the ability to prevent infection from the strains of HPV that cause more than 70 percent of all cervical, anal and oropharyngeal cancers, precancerous cervical lesions and more." It is recommended that the series of HPV vaccines be started in girls between 11 and 12 years old. The series is also recommended for females between the ages of 13 and 26 years old. Click here to learn more about the HPV vaccines.

There are also screening tests available that significantly reduce cervical cancer and pre-cervical cancer. They are the Pap test and the HPV test. A Pap test, also known as a "Pap smear," detects cancer cells and abnormal cells that may become cancerous. Most women should get their first Pap test when they turn 21. If the results from that test come back normal, their doctor will most likely recommend waiting one to three years for their next test. To learn more about the Pap test, click here. 

The HPV test is the second cervical cancer screening test recommended. This test detects cells in the cervix that contain high-risk HPV types that can lead to cervical cancer. It is recommended that women begin getting a Pap and HPV co-test when they turn 30. Click here to learn more about the HPV test.

Even though cervical cancer is highly preventable, there are still thousands of new cases in the U.S. each year. In the majority of cases, women who have an early stage of cervical cancer or pre-cancer often do not exhibit symptoms. Women with more advanced cervical cancer will sometimes experience abnormal vaginal bleeding, unusual vaginal discharge or pain during sexual intercourse. If you have any of these symptoms, it is important that you see a physician in the near future. 

For more information on Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, please visit the National Cervical Cancer Coalition webpage.