Preventing Cervical Cancer

(Rural Health Inc. Recognizes January as National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month)

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus. It is most commonly caused by a long-lasting human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which can cause cells to change and multiply abnormally. Rural Health, Inc. (RHI) encourages women over age 18 to talk to their healthcare provider about testing for HPV, get vaccinated if needed, and to learn the symptoms of cervical cancer.

January is National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. According to the National Cervical Cancer Coalition (NCCC), cervical cancer is the fourth most common types of cancer for women worldwide occurring most often in women between ages 35 and 44. Over 13,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer in the United States each year, and more than 4,000 will die from the disease.

Cervical cancer is also one of the most preventable types of cancer. Regular screenings like Pap tests and HPV tests can detect abnormal cell changes early, and the HPV vaccine can significantly reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer. It is estimated that HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the U.S. causing more than 99% of cervical cancers. This is why vaccination is so important in both girls and boys, starting at ages between 9 and 12.

Because early cancers of the cervix generally do not cause symptoms, regular screening through Pap and HPV tests can help prevent the development of cervical cancer. Possible symptoms of more advanced disease may include abnormal or irregular vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, pain during sex, increased urinary frequency or pain during urination, or vaginal discharge. While these symptoms could also be signs of other health problems, not related to cervical cancer, it’s important to talk to a health care provider if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.

To learn more about cervical cancer and steps you can take to prevent it, contact Rural Health, Inc. at 618-833-4471 or visit them online at ruralhealthinc.org for a clinic office nearest you to schedule an appointment. Or visit the National Cervical Cancer Coalition at nccc-online.org.

Rural Health, Inc. (RHI) is a not-for-profit organization serving Johnson, Massac, and Union counties in Illinois, designated by the federal government as a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), whose mission is to provide quality services to all patients in need of healthcare while being committed to the overall health and well-being of the underserved.

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