MAYVILLE – The Chautauqua County Health Department has launched a campaign in time for cervical health awareness month.
On Monday the county’s epidemiology manager Breeanne Agett told WNYNewsNow women 18 years and older should be screened but could start years before that.
“It should start when a woman becomes sexually active,” said Agett. “Even if your not sexually active you should start at 18 just to get in the habit.”
Agett said Chautauqua County offers financial assistance to those who qualify.
“Our services are able to may for women ages 40 to 65 for women who are unable to pay their copay’s.”
Agett says women should be screened every three years depending on their risk of Cervical Cancer.
Women who smoke are about twice as likely to get cervical cancer compared to non-smokers, and cervical cancer is more often found in women over the age of 30. For more information about risk factors for cervical cancer, visit New York State’s Health website.
Another way to prevent cervical cancer is by being vaccinated against the human papilloma virus (HPV). Research has shown that most cervical cancers are caused by HPV. The HPV vaccine is recommended for boys and girls between the ages of 9 and 14 and young adults through age 26.
Ask your health care provider for more details.
