January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month

There were an estimated 14,100 new cervical cancer cases diagnosed in the United States in 2022.  That same year, about 4,280 people dies from cervical cancer.  Even though the US has seen a decline in the number of new cases, we can do better.  Cervical cancer is the most preventable female cancer with regular screening tests and vaccinations.

 

 

Cervical Cancer Screenings

There are 2 types of cervical cancer screenings, pap smear and HPV test. Both these tests look for changes in the normal cell development of the cervix. They can catch cervical cancer early or before precancerous changes develop into cancer. This leads to earlier treatment and better outcomes for patients. Below are the recommendations for cervical cancer screening. SWNPHD encourages you to talk to your medical provider about screening.

 

Cervical Cancer Prevention

Cervical cancer can be prevented with screenings to detect cervical changes before cancer develops. It can also be prevented with vaccination. HPV (human papillomavirus) causes 90 percent of cervical cancers. HPV is a group of over 150 viruses and can cause six different cancers. These cancers include oral cancers, reproductive cancers, and most frequently, cervical cancer.

 

 

HPV is an extremely common virus, with an estimated 14 million new cases occurring annually in the United States.  HPV causes an estimated 36,000 cancer cases per year; the vaccination would prevent 32,000 of those cancer cases from ever developing.  It is recommended that girls and boys be vaccinated between the ages of 9-12.  Studies have shown that the vaccine produces a stronger immune response with given in preteen years. However, women and men can get the vaccination through the age of 45.

 

 

 

 

Cervical Cancer Awareness Month is the perfect time to learn more about cervical cancer, screenings and prevention.  It is important to ensure you are up to date on screenings and vaccinations to best protect yourself and prevent cervical cancer. As always, speak to your doctor to find out what is best for you and your health.