In collaboration with Dr. Kelly Evans, Grace Health Chief Medical Officer, and Beth Howard, APRN, and Rebecca Sears, APRN, Grace Health Women’s Care providers.
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, and it’s the perfect time to talk about ways to protect yourself and your loved ones. Cervical cancer is preventable and treatable when caught early, so raising awareness can save lives. Here are the top seven things you should know about cervical cancer:
1. Cervical Cancer Is Often Preventable
Cervical cancer is primarily caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that most people are exposed to at some point in their lives. The good news? The HPV vaccine is highly effective at preventing the types of HPV that most commonly lead to cervical cancer. Getting vaccinated early, ideally between ages 9 and 26, is key.
2. Regular Screenings Are Essential
Pap smears and HPV tests can detect abnormal changes in cervical cells before they become cancerous. The American Cancer Society recommends starting Pap smears at age 21 and continuing every three years. Women aged 30-65 may opt for co-testing with a Pap smear and HPV test every five years.
3. Early Stages Often Show No Symptoms
Cervical cancer typically doesn’t cause symptoms in its early stages, which is why regular screenings are critical. When symptoms do occur, they may include unusual vaginal bleeding, discharge, or pelvic pain. Don’t wait—see your healthcare provider if you notice anything unusual.
4. The HPV Vaccine Is Safe and Effective
The HPV vaccine is a powerful tool in preventing cervical cancer. It protects against the strains of HPV most likely to cause cancer. The vaccine is safe and has been widely tested. Even if you’re older than the recommended age range, talk to your provider—it may still be beneficial.
5. Risk Factors Can Be Reduced
Certain behaviors can reduce your risk of cervical cancer:
- Practice safe sex by using condoms and limiting the number of sexual partners.
- Avoid smoking, as it can increase your risk.
- Stay consistent with regular check-ups and follow your doctor’s recommendations.
6. Cervical Cancer Is Treatable When Detected Early
When caught in its early stages, cervical cancer is highly treatable. That’s why early detection through screenings is so important. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the stage of the cancer.
7. You Can Help Spread Awareness
Educating others about cervical cancer prevention and the importance of regular screenings can make a big difference. Encourage your friends and family to schedule their Pap smears and talk to their healthcare providers about the HPV vaccine.
Take Action This Month
At Grace Health, we’re committed to keeping our community healthy. If you haven’t had your screening or have questions about the HPV vaccine, now is the time to act. Schedule an appointment today and take control of your health.
Let’s work together to prevent cervical cancer—because awareness can save lives.
Call 888-883-9005 to schedule your screening with Grace Health today!
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About HPV. Accessed January 22, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/hpv/about/index.html
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine safety. Accessed January 27, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccine-safety/vaccines/hpv.html
- National Cancer Institute. HPV and cancer. Accessed January 24, 2025. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/infectious-agents/hpv-and-cancer#what-cancers-are-caused-by-hpv-infection
- American Cancer Society. HPV vaccine. Accessed January 22, 2025. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-prevention/hpv/hpv-vaccines.html
- American Cancer Society. The Pap test. Accessed January 20, 2025. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/cervical-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/screening-tests/pap-test.html
- American Cancer Society. The HPV test. Accessed January 17, 2025. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/cervical-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/screening-tests/hpv-test.html
- American Cancer Society. Signs and symptoms of cervical cancer. Accessed January 16, 2025. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/cervical-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-symptoms.html
- American Cancer Society. Risk factors for cervical cancer. Accessed January 26, 2025. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/cervical-cancer/causes-risks-prevention/risk-factors.html
- American Cancer Society. Treating cervical cancer by stage. Accessed January 27, 2025. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/cervical-cancer/treating/by-stage.html
