To the Editor:
We have the power to wipe out cervical cancer. Yet, a recent U.S. study shows that more cervical cancers are being diagnosed at a later stage, when the cancer may have already spread, and fewer at an early stage, when treatment works best. The biggest increase was seen among Black women. New York state data also show that Black women are more likely than white women to be diagnosed with cervical cancer and also to die from the disease.
We have the tools to find cervical cancer early or completely prevent it. The first tool is regular cervical cancer screening. Cervical cancer screening tests can find the cells that lead to cancer before it starts. These cells can then be removed. This prevents cancer! Screening also helps to find cervical cancer early when it may be easier to treat.
The second tool is the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. HPV causes nearly all cases of cervical cancer and several other cancers. The HPV vaccine prevents about 90% of HPV-related cancers. The HPV vaccine is recommended for children starting at age 9 and young adults through age 26.
If you have a cervix, start screening at age 21 and get screened every three years until age 65. Talk to your doctor after age 65 to see if you should still be screened. While the HPV vaccine is very effective in preventing cervical cancer, you should still be screened regularly.
If you don’t have insurance, the Cancer Services Program (CSP) of Cayuga, Cortland and Tompkins Counties provides free cervical cancer screening to those aged 40 and older who qualify. Most health insurers cover screening at no cost for those with insurance.
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month and the start of a new year. Make a resolution to call your health care provider or call us at (607) 758-5523 to see if you qualify for a free cervical cancer screening.
Courtney Maxson
Program Coordinator at the Cortland County Health Department
CSP of Cayuga, Cortland and Tompkins Counties
Related: New York health officials urge HPV shots start earlier at age 9