Screening and early detection can saves lives. Unfortunately, minority women are often the
least
likely to get screened.
According to the American Cancer Society, African Americans are about 30 percent more likely to die of all cancers combined than white Americans. And invasive cervical cancer occurs in Hispanic/Latino women twice as often as non-Hispanic white women.
A recent study found that American Indian or Alaska Native women were more likely than others to report never having had a prior Pap test, and African American women were more likely not to receive follow-up after diagnosis of a serious cervical lesion.
“These data remind us
that women of every race and ethnic group need access to the potentially
life-saving benefits of regular cervical cancer screenings,” said Bert Malone,
Director of Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion.
According to Malone,
most cervical cancers can be prevented.
One way to prevent cervical cancer is to avoid risk factors such as
smoking, having multiple sexual partners, and having sex at a young age. Another risk factor is HIV infection. A
woman who is HIV positive is less likely to fight the virus because of a
weakened immune system.
-more-
The second way to
prevent cancer of the cervix is to have regular Pap tests. The Pap test can
detect human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and pre-cancers.
“Cervical cancer is one
of the most treatable cancers that affect women,” stated Malone. “Taking advantage of screening can help
ensure that the cancer is detected at a stage when it can be successfully
treated.”
In 2002, Missouri lost
over 800 women to breast cancer. The
risk of breast cancer increases with age, particularly after the age of
50. Maintaining a diet low in fat and
calories may decrease a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer. Most importantly, clinical breast exams,
monthly breast self-examinations and regular mammograms for women over the age
of 40 are key to preventing breast cancer.
“Early detection is the
best protection. When women are screened regularly, breast and cervical cancers
can be discovered early, when they are most treatable,” said Malone.
To learn more about free
breast and cervical cancer screenings available to underinsured low-income
Missouri women through the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services’
BCCCP program, call the Cancer Information Service toll free at 1-800-4-CANCER
or call the Breast and Cervical Caner Control Project at (573) 522-2845.
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