Each January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, with efforts made to inform individuals of the details of this particular cancer. Keep reading to learn some more important facts that you can share with friends and loved ones.
Cancer Rates
Sadly, the American Cancer Society predicts that over 13,000 women will be diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2019. The organization also predicts that around 4,000 women will lose their battle with this cancer in the coming year. While there are still far too many women being harmed, the rates of women dying from cervical cancer have dropped dramatically over the last several decades. This is due in large part to the use of the Pap test, which can help detect precancers that can potentially be harmful in the future.
Demographics
Testing for cervical cancer early on and regularly greatly increases the chances of detection and prevention. Cervical cancer typically presents around midlife, with the most frequently diagnosed group being 35-44 year-olds. However, women outside of this age range can also develop cervical cancer.
Risk Factors
There are multiple risk-increasing factors for cervical cancer. The National Institutes of Health notes that nearly all cases of cervical cancer stem from being infected with human papillomavirus (HPV). Other risk factors include smoking, STDs, family history, and low economic status. Although cervical cancer is very treatable in the early stages, access to healthcare and paying attention to possible symptoms are vital to the treatment process.
Prevention
No matter how healthy they may seem, it’s important for every woman to have routine check-ups to test for diseases like cervical cancer. The most effective tests offer a way to detect troubling developments in early stages, which greatly increases survival rates. Whether it be our daughters, mothers, sisters, or friends, we all have important women in our lives who can benefit from increased awareness and knowledge. Don’t let a loved one succumb to a disease like cervical cancer when routine check-ups can be such powerful preventative tools!
Now that you know a little more about cervical cancer, we hope you will spread your knowledge to inform others. If anyone in your group of family and friends is currently battling cervical cancer, make sure they know you’re in their corner. MyWalkGear has a large selection of personalized apparel to help raise awareness and show support to those who are fighting this disease.
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