DPHHS to Montanans: Early Detection is Your Best Defense Against Cervical Cancer
Contact:
Jon Ebelt, Communications Director,
DPHHS, (406) 444-0936, (406) 461-3757
jebelt@mt.gov
DPHHS to Montanans: Early Detection is Your Best Defense Against Cervical Cancer
DPHHS urges Montanans to participate in lifesaving health screenings
This January, the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) is urging Montanans to take control of their health with life-saving cervical cancer screenings and prevention tools.
Cervical cancer is the fifth most common cancer diagnosed among women under the age of 50 in Montana. On average, 38 women in Montana are diagnosed with cervical cancer, and nine lose their lives to the disease each year.
Most cervical cancers are preventable. Nearly all cervical cancer cases are caused by persistent infection with human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV infection is very common, and it rarely progresses to cancer; however, getting vaccinated against HPV significantly reduces the risk for cervical cancer.
“Detecting cancer early, when treatment works best, is critical to saving lives,” said Sara Murgel, manager of the DPHHS Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program. “ The HPV vaccine is a powerful tool in cancer prevention and is recommended for routine vaccination at age 11 or 12 for both boys and girls. Furthermore, the Pap test can help prevent cervical cancer or find it early. Women should talk to their medical provider about the benefits of beginning screening at age 21.”
Most health insurance plans cover the cost of cervical screening tests. The Montana Cancer Control Program (MCCP) provides free breast and cervical cancer screenings (mammograms and Pap tests) and diagnostic services statewide for uninsured or underinsured women who meet income guidelines. In the last five years alone, 2,661 Montana women received free cervical cancer screening and diagnostic services through the MCCP.
To be connected to screenings in your community, call the program’s toll-free number at 1-888-803-9343, or visit www.cancer.mt.gov . Local health department staff can also assist in scheduling MCCP screening appointments.
All Montanans can help reduce their cancer risk by practicing healthy lifestyle behaviors:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Engage in regular physical activity
- Choose not to drink alcohol, or drink alcohol in moderation
- Do not use tobacco products; quitting greatly reduces your risk of several types of cancer
- Talk to your doctor about family health history and other ways to lower cancer risk
DPHHS will be sharing information and reminders on social media throughout the month of January on Facebook, X, and Instagram. DPHHS encourages Montanans to join the conversation and raise awareness by sharing these posts using the hashtags #CervicalCancer #MCCP, and #Health406.
Tags: Public Health