Catching cancer early—before symptoms arise—plays a crucial role in improving outcomes and survival rates
As we recognize January as National Cervical Health Awareness Month, the Erie County Department of Health is emphasizing what research and results have proven: regular screening and vaccination can prevent cervical cancer.
Facts about Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer can affect anyone with a cervix, but it is most commonly diagnosed in women over the age of 30; there are about 200,000 cervical cancer cases each year in the United States.
Early stages of cervical cancer may not present noticeable symptoms. Regular cervical cancer screenings, such as the Pap test or a combination of Pap test and high-risk human papilloma virus (hrHPV) tests, are essential for early detection and prevention. These tests can identify abnormal changes in the cervix before they develop into cancer. Most people should begin regular Pap tests at age 21 and continue through age 65 as part of their routine healthcare.
HPV and HPV Vaccine
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that over 90% of cervical cancer cases are linked to human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a common virus passed during sexual contact and more than 85% of people will get an HPV infection in their lifetime. Persistent infections can lead to several forms of cancer. The good news is that almost all cervical cancer can be prevented by HPV vaccination. The CDC recommends the HPV vaccine as part of routine vaccination for both boys and girls at ages 11 or 12, with catch-up vaccination available through age 26. Individuals ages 27 to 45 years may consider vaccination after consulting with their healthcare provider.
“National Cervical Health Awareness Month emphasizes the crucial role of prevention through regular screenings and the HPV vaccine,” said Dr. Gale Burstein, Erie County Commissioner of Health. “Early detection and vaccination are essential strategies in reducing cervical cancer rates and improving survival outcomes.”
Behavioral cervical cancer risk factors include smoking, which doubles the likelihood of developing cervical cancer, as well as using birth control pills for extended periods, giving birth three or more times, or having many sexual partners. Cervical cancer is less common in people who use patients whose intrauterine devices (IUDs) as birth control and whose sexual partners are circumcised males.
Screening Options for Uninsured and Underinsured Erie County Residents
Erie County residents who face financial barriers to cervical cancer screening can contact the Erie County Cancer Services Program at (716) 858-7376 or visit www.erie.gov/cancerservices. Cancer Services connects eligible uninsured and underinsured women aged 40 and older to free cervical cancer screening and follow-up care.
“Our goal is to provide all Erie County residents with the opportunity for early cancer detection,” said Cancer Services Program Manager Michelle Wysocki. “Catching cancer early—before symptoms arise—plays a crucial role in improving outcomes and survival rates. We are committed to connecting people with the screenings they need, regardless of their insurance status.”
Erie County residents can receive cervical cancer screenings and the HPV vaccine at the Erie County Family Planning Center, located at 608 William Street in Buffalo. Appointments are recommended; walk-ins are also welcome. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (716) 858-2779.
Erie County Department of Health, Cancer Services Program: (716) 858-7376 or erie.gov/cancerservices
New York State Department of Health, Cervical Cancer: http://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/cancer/cervical
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cervical Cancer: https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/cervical/index.htm
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, HPV Vaccine: https://www.cdc.gov/hpv/
