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January 12, 2023

News • January 12, 2023

MCDH encourages cervical cancer awareness, prevention in January

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McHENRY COUNTY — The McHenry County Department of Health and the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (IBCCP) are urging women to prioritize their cervical health during Cervical Cancer Awareness Month.

The National Cancer Institute estimates that over 14,100 new cases of cervical cancer were identified in 2022, and over 4,200 deaths occurred. Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, and early detection of cervical cancer is key to saving lives.

 

The most important actions one can take to help prevent cervical cancer are to get vaccinated against Human Papillomavirus (HPV), have regular screening tests and return to the doctor if screening test results are abnormal.

 

Almost all cervical cancers are caused by HPV, a common virus that can be passed from one person to another during intimate contact. Prevention measures individuals can take to reduce the risk of HPV include vaccination. The HPV vaccination is recommended for those aged 11 to 12 years but can be given starting at age 9, and it is recommended for everyone through 26 years if they are unvaccinated.

 

Additionally, the Pap test is another way to detect changes that could become precancer or cervical cancer. Pap tests are the first line of defense and are recommended for women every three years after the age of 21.

 

Funded through the Illinois Department of Public Health, IBCCP provides free screenings to detect breast and cervical cancer for underserved women in McHenry County.  Services are free of charge to eligible women at participating providers in McHenry County and can include:

 

  • Office visit for breast and/or pelvic exam
  • Pap test and HPV test
  • Screening mammogram
  • Diagnostic workup for abnormal screening results

 

MCDH may also be able to help women with Medicaid or insurance whose plan is accepted by IBCCP providers.  For more information about IBCCP or to find out if you qualify, contact MCDH at (815) 334-0232, the Illinois Women’s Health-Line at 888-522-1282 or visit mcdh.info.