Cervical Cancer: A Test of Strength, and a Call to Action
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, and it is a time to remember the importance of health screenings for women. Here, we can gather knowledge and strength, not just to live on our own but to help each other, too.
It's amazing how far we have come and how many positive shifts we have experienced regarding women’s health, especially regarding cervical cancer. With the advances in preventive care, we can find this potentially deadly cancer earlier than ever before and even prevent it from occurring in some cases.
As Sisters in Health, let us take the time this month to explore our options and take control of our health and well-being. Let us rally together to create awareness, increase access, and reduce disparities so that we can all have healthier lives.
Screening for Cervical Cancer
The frequency of the screening test will depend on your age, common recommendations are:
21 yrs – 29 yrs:
Pap test every 3 years
30 yrs – 65 yrs:
- Pap test every 3 years
- HPV test every 5 years
- Pap test and HPV test every 5 years
66 yrs and over:
Discuss with your doctor
Check with your doctor to find out when you should get the screening. In some cases, the testing may be more frequent than in others.
When it is detected in an early stage, cervical cancer is one of the most successfully treatable forms of cancer. Even in the late stages, cervical cancer can be kept under control with the right treatment.
When to get an HPV vaccine?
The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services recommends the vaccine between the ages of 9 and 26. For all of us over 26, we should talk to our doctor for the most up-to-date recommendations.
Keeping all your annual appointment is very important! A little Self-care and self-love can go a long way to help prevent health issues in the future.