Cervical Cancer Awareness

January is cervical cancer awareness month. This is something that hits close to home since both my sisters and myself have had it. I feel it is so important to educate people on this topic. So many have a misconception about what it is and how it's caused.

*In the United States, About 11,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year and 4,000+ women die in the USA each year from this disease.

(That's an insane amount! I wonder if educating people more would help that number go down. )

*11% of United States women report that they do not have their Pap test screenings.

(I wonder if that 11% really knows how important this is to their health?) 

*High-Risk HPV Types are directly related to cervical cancer, yet many women are unaware of what HPV is or the relationship it has to cervical cancer.

(This is my goal...to educate more people.)

The National Cervical Cancer Center (NCCC) have some goals of their own.

*Maintain an on-going support system for women, family members and friends facing issues related to cervical cancer, HPV and other HPV cancers.

*Continue growing its existing recognition in the United States and ongoing recognition worldwide as a primary clinical and public education resource clearinghouse on cervical cancer, HPV related topics and other related cancers;

*Advocate for patient access to quality care and regular testing and vaccination to prevent cervical cancer/HPV disease

*Reduce the stigma associated with cervical cancer and HPV disease.

For the month of January women can get a free or low cost screening. Please go here to find a center in your state.