January marks National Cervical Cancer Screening month. Cervical cancer is the second-most common type of cancer among women worldwide, and in 2007, an estimated 11,150 cases of cervical cancer were diagnosed in the United States. Half of the women diagnosed with cervical cancer are between the ages of 35 and 55. Two types of the human papilloma virus (HPV), which affects one in four women, are the most common causes of cervical cancer.

From Planned Parenthood National Cervical Cancer Screening Month

Pap tests should start at age 21 or 3 years after a woman becomes sexually active. Regular pap tests can determine if a woman is at risk for cervical cancer because of the pre-cancerous stages that a screening can find.

We now have not only the ability to screen for cervical cancer through a pap smear, we now have the HPV vaccine. The HPV vaccine can be given to girls who are 11 - 13. The vaccine is most effective when given before a woman becomes sexually active.

It can be given after the fact too since a woman most likely does not have all 4 of the HPV types that can cause cervical cancer. Currently there is no test that can tell the specific types of HPV just that it is active in a woman’s body.

Being abstinent, using condoms and getting yearly check ups can lessen the risk of cervical cancer. Let’s be active in her health decisions! Take control of your body! We have so much that can help us to prevent illness. Take advantage of it.