La Salle County Health Department reminds women to be screened for cervical cancer

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month

In recognition of Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, the La Salle County Health Department is urging women older than 21 to be screened for cervical cancer.

The goal is to eradicate cervical cancer in Illinois through women taking charge by getting screened.

In 2021, an estimated 13,000 women in the United States will be diagnosed with cervical cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. During the pandemic, it is important that women keep up with their annual screenings. Cervical cancer, when caught early, is nearly 100% curable.

The ACS reports that between 60 and 80% of American women with newly diagnosed invasive cervical cancer have not had a Pap smear in the last five years and/or have never had one.

Cervical cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide and one of the most preventable and treatable when detected early.

In addition to increasing awareness of cervical cancer, there are some preventive steps women can take.

Studies have shown that regular exercise, a healthy diet, routine screenings and getting the cervical cancer vaccine to help prevent HPV decreases the risk for cervical cancer. Licensed HPV vaccines for women and men are available. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that 11- and 12-year-old girls and boys begin receiving the HPV vaccine series, but at the earliest, HPV vaccination can begin at age 9. The vaccination series must be completed by age 45. HPV vaccination is offered at the La Salle County Health Department’s monthly immunization clinics. Those who are interested in scheduling an appointment or who want more information can call the health department.

The La Salle County Health Department also has a program available that can pay for Pap smears for La Salle and Grundy County women ages 21-64 who have no insurance or who have high deductibles regardless of income. Anyone who needs more information on cervical cancer and the importance of Pap tests, the IBCCP program or the cervical cancer vaccines can call the Health Department at 1-815-433-3366 or visit www.lasallecounty.org.