McHenry County Government: Early Detection Of Cervical Cancer Key To Saving Lives

Huntley IL

04 January, 2022

11:55 AM

Description

Press release from the McHenry County Government: 01/04/2022 10:00 AM During Cervical Health Awareness Month, the McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) and the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (IBCCP) are reminding women about the importance of their cervical health and encouraging them to schedule a cervical cancer screening. The National Cancer Institute estimates that over 14,400 new cases of cervical cancer were identified in 2021, 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.  Cervical cancer most often results from exposure to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection.  A screening known as a Pap test can find changes in the cervix before cancer develops. 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 IBCCP. This press release was produced by the McHenry County Government. The views expressed here are the author's own.