NORTHERN MICHIGAN – The Central Michigan District Health Department (CMDHD) wants to remind the community that cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers that affect women.
According to the American Cancer Society, in 2021, an estimated 14,480 new cases of cervical cancer will be diagnosed in the United States, with an estimated 4,290 deaths from the disease.
About 2 out of every 3 cervical cancers are caused by certain strains of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Vaccines have been shown to prevent the types of HPV that lead to cervical cancer. Currently there are two HPV vaccines, Cervarix and Gardasil, available for both boys and girls between the ages of 9 and 26. Healthcare providers recommend getting your teens vaccinated.
In October 2018, the FDA approved the use of Gardasil 9 for males and females ages 27-45. Both vaccines are available by calling your local health department branch office and making an appointment. This vaccine is recommended for males also, because they can carry the virus and infect women leading to cervical cancer.
All women who have reached the age of 21 should have regular interval cervical cancer screening.
For more information on cancer screening services offered at CMDHD, visit cmdhd.org, LIKE Central Michigan District Health Department on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @CMiDHD.
