What Causes 90% of Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer is cancer that begins on the surface of your cervix. It happens when the cells on your cervix start to change to precancerous cells. HPV (human papillomavirus) infection causes almost all cases of cervical cancer. HPV is a virus that spreads through sexual contact.
Cervical cancer is highly preventable and highly curable if caught early. Nearly all cervical cancers could be prevented by HPV vaccination, routine cervical cancer screening, and appropriate follow-up treatment when needed.
To all girls and women, the messages of Cervical Cancer Awareness Month are clear:
- Get informed. Find out the facts about HPV and cervical cancer, including what signs to look out for. Help educate other women in your life too.
- Get screened. Cervical cancer screening typically starts at 30 years of age and is repeated regularly.
- Get vaccinated. The HPV vaccine is given in 1 or 2 doses that should begin when a girl is aged 9–14 years.
Taney County Health Department provides HPV vaccines and cervical cancer screenings. Call for more information today!
Use the following links to learn more:
World Health Organization
Centers for Disease Control
National Cervical Cancer Coalition