It's 2010, a new year and a perfect time for women to think about their health. Women are so busy with their family and work schedules that they forget to take care of themselves. In observation of Cervical Cancer Health Awareness Month, the Cancer Services Program of Fulton and Montgomery Counties would like to remind women to schedule a cervical health screening this month.
Cancer screenings and early detection save lives. All women are at risk for cervical cancer. It is especially important for women who have not had a Pap test within the past five years to get screened because six out of 10 cervical cancers occur in women who have never received a Pap test.
There usually aren't any symptoms of cervical cancer in its earliest, most treatable stage. That's why having a regular Pap test is the key to prevention. According to the American Cancer Society, many women do not know that as they get older, they are still at risk of getting cervical cancer. This is why it is important for older women to keep having regular Pap tests.
I urge women who do not have health insurance to take advantage of the Cancer Services Program and get their cervical cancer screening. The screening is at no cost to you.
The Cancer Services Program of Fulton and Montgomery Counties also offers clinical breast exams, mammograms, pelvic exams, Pap testing and colorectal cancer screening kits to men ages 50 to 64 and women ages 40 to 64 who are eligible.
If you do not have health insurance and would like to see if you are eligible, please call Suzanne Hagadorn, program coordinator, at 841-3726. Enrollment is easy.
CHRISTINA AKEY
Fulton County Public Health educator
Johnstown