Mahaska Health Partnership Encourages Cervical Awareness
Mahaska Health Partnership
MAHASKA COUNTY – During January, Mahaska Health Partnership is recognizing Cervical Health Awareness Month. Women are encouraged to take precautionary action to detect and treat cervical issues before they become life threatening.
According to the National Cervical Cancer Coalition (NCCC), approximately 12,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer in the United States each year. Fortunately, cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers through early detection and the treatment of abnormal cells.
“Abnormal cells in the cervix can be detected by a PAP test,” explained MHP Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist Jeffrey Fowler, DO. “Human papillomavirus, or HPV, tests can be done at the same time to check for high-risk types of HPV that can cause cervical cancer.”
HPV is the most common sexually transmitted disease and is passed through genital contact. The CDC states that 90% of HPV cases are cleared up naturally by the body within two years. The other 10% can cause genital warts and cervical cancer.
Cervical issues can be avoided and treated successfully with early detection. To ensure the best protection against cervical cancer or HPV, women should have gynecological exams yearly, be vaccinated against HPV and practice safe sex.
“If you notice changes in your gynecological health, visit your healthcare provider as soon as possible,” said Dr. Fowler. “Early detection is your best defense against cervical cancer.”
Many people with HPV do not know that they are infected and continue to infect others. The NCCC estimates that 70% of women and men will come into contact with HPV in their lifetime, so it is important to continue to get regular gynecological exams to ensure your health and stop the spread of HPV and possible cervical cancer to others.
Mahaska Health Partnership, located in Oskaloosa, is a non-profit health system accredited by the Joint Commission. It is guided by its mission to provide exceptional customer service and health improvement, linking the science of medicine with the humanity of compassionate care. For more information about how Mahaska Health Partnership is making healthcare personal, call 641-672-3240 or visit www.mahaskahealth.org.
