VALDOSTA – South Health District is reminding women to take care of their health through regular screenings and prevention.
VALDOSTA – January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, and the Georgia Department of Public Health’s South Health District is reminding women how important it is to take care of their health through regular screenings and prevention.
Cervical cancer is serious, but it can often be prevented or treated if caught early. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that about 13,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year. Around 4,000 women die from the disease annually. These numbers show why early detection and awareness are so important.
“Diagnosing and catching cervical cancer early can save lives,” said Missy Sims, R.N., Women’s Health Coordinator for the South Health District. “Through BCCP we can make sure that a lack of insurance coverage or income concerns do not stand in the way of a woman receiving care. Our program provides those who qualify with health screenings and connects them with services to support them through their health journey.”
Cervical cancer is often preventable when steps are taken early. Ways to lower risk include:
- Getting the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine
- Having regular Pap tests and HPV tests
- Practicing safe sex
- Not smoking
Making these intentional choices to protect your health, along with receiving your routine screenings, can significantly reduce the chance of developing cervical cancer.
Take action this January. Schedule a screening and help protect your health. Women who want to schedule a screening or find out if they qualify for BCCP should contact their local health department.
More information about the Breast and Cervical Cancer Program is available at southhealthdistrict.com/BCCP.
