Beat the odds and win! Cervical Cancer is preventable with an annual exam and HPV vaccination. 13,000 women in the U.S. are diagnosed with Cervical Cancer each year.
Get the Facts.
- The cervix is the lower part of the uterus. Cervical Cancer occurs when abnormal cells on the cervix grow out of control.
- Most cervical cancer is caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV.
- HPV is contracted through intercourse with someone who has it.
Symptoms may include but are not limited to bleeding between menstrual periods, after intercourse or after menopause, pain in the lower belly/pelvis, pain during intercourse, or a discharge that isn’t normal.
Take Action.
- Cervical cancer can often be successfully treated when it’s found early.
- A screening test (Pap) can find changes in cervical cells before they turn into cancer.
- If you are age 26 or younger, you can get the HPV vaccine, which protects against types of HPV that cause most cases of cervical cancer.
- The best way to avoid getting an STI is to not have intercourse. If you do, be safe by using prophylactics and limiting the number of partners you have.
How is it Treated?
- Surgery, such as a hysterectomy and removal of pelvic lymph nodes with or without removal of both ovaries and fallopian tubes.
- Chemotherapy.
- Radiation therapy.
Finding out that you have cancer can change your life. You may feel like your world has turned upside down and you have lost all control. Talking with family, friends, or a counselor can really help. Ask your doctor about support groups. Or call the American Cancer Society (1-800-227-2345) or visit its website at www.cancer.org.
Call Community Health Net to schedule an appointment with a provider today: (814) 455-7222. Or visit www.communityhealthnet.org for more information.
Our health information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist the public to learn more about their health. Community Health Net providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.
Health Facts is a public service partnership of Community Health Net and CF Cares of Country Fair Stores, Inc.