Each year, 13,800 women in the US are diagnosed with cervical cancer, yet the disease remains one of the most preventable forms of cancer.
In most cases, cervical cancer can be prevented through early detection and treatment of abnormal cell changes that occur in the cervix years before the cancer develops. These cell changes are caused by human papilloma virus (HPV). Girls and women age 12–27 can prevent HPV with a vaccination and women over age 30 can be tested for HPV.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, about 79 million Americans are currently infected with HPV. About 14 million people become newly infected each year. HPV is so common that almost every person who is sexually-active will get HPV at some time in their life if they don’t get the HPV vaccine. Every year, approximately 19,400 women and 12,100 men are affected by cancers caused by HPV.
Cervical cancer takes 10 to 20 years or more to develop, women who are no longer sexually active should still get regular Pap tests.
Don’t be a statistic.
Schedule a Pap test at HOPES by calling (775) 786-4673.
