Cervical Health Awareness Month

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Published on Tuesday, 01 January 2019 00:00

January is Cervical Health Awareness Month

January is Cervical Health Awareness Month, and the Andrew County Health Department wants you to know that there's a lot you can do to prevent cervical cancer.

HPV (human papillomavirus) is a very common infection that spreads through sexual activity. It's also a major cause of cervical cancer. About 79 million Americans currently have HPV, but many people with HPV don't know they are infected.

The good news?

• The HPV vaccine (shot) can prevent HPV.
• Cervical cancer can often be prevented with regular screening tests (called Pap tests) and follow-up care.

In honor of National Cervical Health Awareness Month, the Andrew County Health Department encourages:

• Women to start getting regular Pap tests at age 21
• Parents to make sure pre-teens get the HPV vaccine at age 11 or 12

Teens and young adults also need to get the HPV vaccine if they didn't get it as pre-teens. Women up to age 26 and men up to age 21 can still get the vaccine.

Taking small steps can help keep you safe and healthy.