Cervical Health Awareness

Articles

Jan 1

The month of January is a time designated to focus on cervical health awareness in the United States. As with so many awareness campaigns, cervical cancer is a preventable disease with the proper measures taken. Through regular screening and vaccination, women can prevent cervical cancer or human papillomavirus (HPV) disease. Early detection is so important, so we encourage everyone to help us spread awareness about how to prevent this disease which affects over 13,000 women in the US each year. (NCCC)

What is HPV and Cervical Cancer?

Human papillomavirus is one of the most common causes of cervical cancer. It is also the most commonly occurring sexually-transmitted disease in the United States. Often women in their teens or twenties contract the disease which can lead to problems in your cervical health later in life. HPV is a very common disease, with approximately 80% of all sexually active people contracting it at some point in their life. While it is most commonly associated with cervical cancer, HPV can also cause other types of cancer in the body.

Your body’s immune system may ward off the infection before you see any physical indication of the disease, but often the physical symptoms of HPV are usually different forms of warts. Some individuals may contract HPV without seeing any physical manifestation and develop cervical cancer as much as twenty years in the future. Those with higher numbers of sexual partners, weaker immune systems, or damaged skin are more likely to contract this disease through skin to skin contact.

Prevention of HPV

As warts are contagious, different types of HPV can spread very easily. Taking precautions to keep from contracting warts is one way to prevent HPV or reduce your risk. For instance, there are places that you are more likely to contract plantar warts, such as a public pool or shower. Wearing shoes or sandals in these public spaces will help to protect you from contracting warts on your feet and prevent potential exposure to HPV.

Also, an HPV vaccine can be administered to both men and women between the ages of nine to 45 and can prevent HPV that leads to cervical cancer or causes genital warts. The most effective time to receive the vaccine is at an earlier age, before any sexual contact. HPV, cervical cancer, and genital warts can be prevented if an individual receives the vaccine prior to contracting the virus. If someone receives the vaccine after contracting HPV, it may not be effective at all.

Screening & Testing

One of the best ways to check up on your cervical health is to maintain regular screening tests. A pap test can indicate whether cells in the cervix that can lead to cancer in the future are detected. It is recommended that women receive a pap test every three years with normal results between the ages of 21 and 30. With normal results over 30, it is recommended that a pap test is administered every five years.

Depending on the severity and progression of cervical cancer, there are different treatment methods that your gynecologist or doctor may recommend, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. If you have been diagnosed with cervical cancer, it is best to consult with your healthcare providers to determine the smartest and safest treatment for your individual needs.

Increasing Awareness

The National Cervical Cancer Coalition and the American Sexual Health Association aim to increase awareness of the cause of cervical cancer to reduce the number of people affected by it each year, as it is preventable. Education and promoting an understanding about screening and vaccination will help more individuals seek a course of preventative care. In recent years, the number of individuals diagnosed with cervical cancer in the US has reduced. You can take action to spread the word in your own community by starting a conversation. The NCCC and ASHA have many resources you can share on social media or send to those you care about to help spread more awareness. Download a proclamation about cervical cancer that you can send to your local representatives to increase local awareness about prevention.

So many diseases and viruses are preventable and as we continue to promote more conversations, education, and awareness of how to promote better health through preventative care, we will be able to save more lives in the future. It all starts with your immediate family, friends, and community starting the conversation and helping everyone understand how to focus on cervical health.

If you are looking to work with an occupational, physical, or speech therapist related to a diagnosis or major life change, get in contact with Tilton’s Therapy. Our team services clients in Southern Nevada, Northern Nevada, Oregon, and Hawaii through mobile therapy in the natural environment. Our goal is always to help you reach your maximum level of independence in your daily life. If you are located in the regions we serve, fill out a new patient registration to get started or reach out to our team with any questions you may have.

Looking for additional resources? Read on to learn about different health-focused awareness causes and help us spread the word. Our resources section highlights many different health concerns and preventable ailments that can help guide you or a loved one toward better health. Get free printable worksheets, habit trackers, and activities to help you engage your physical and mental health with support from our therapist recommended resources.