Regular Screenings and HPV Vaccine May Save Your Life
Following the medical guidelines for routine screening of cervical cancer is important.
The Morris-Somerset Regional Chronic Disease Coalition (RCDC) are urging women to take advantage of potentially life-saving screenings and immunizations that can significantly decrease one’s risk of developing cervical cancer.
Although cervical cancer is most prevalent in women age 30 years and over, all women are at risk. Early detection of cervical cancer through regular screening via a Pap test and/or HPV test is critical since it can increase your chance of survival if diagnosed and treated promptly.
What are Pap and HPV tests?
It is recommended that women get a Pap test every three years beginning at age 21. From ages 30 to 65 years, women should continue with regular Pap tests but can go as long as five years between tests if combined with a test for HPV.
Routine screening is important
Receiving an HPV vaccination is the best way to prevent infections caused by the HPV virus, which leads to the majority (90%) of all cervical cancer cases in the United States. While HPV can be transmitted through sexual contact, it is recommended that boys and girls at age 11 and 12 receive the vaccination long before they are exposed, and while their immune response is high. Talk to your healthcare provider about the benefits of receiving the HPV vaccine.
Practice healthy habits
For more information on Cervical Cancer Prevention, including information on low cost or reduced-cost medical care, visit the Morris Somerset Regional Chronic Disease Coalition at www.co.somerset.nj.us/health
The Morris-Somerset Regional Chronic Disease Coalition is made possible by a grant from the New Jersey Office of Cancer Control and Prevention and is administered by the Somerset County Department of Health.