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Hello, I am Dr. Terri Cornelison from the National Cancer Institute
and I want to speak with you today about cervical cancer.
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers if abnormal changes are detected early.
However, it continues to be a silent killer for many women.
This year, it is estimated that more than 11,000 new cases of cervical cancer will be
diagnosed in these United States and more than 4,000 women will die from this disease.
Cervical cancer poses a serious health threat for women of color.
The death rate for African American women is double that of white women and for Hispanic
women, the number of new cases of cervical cancer is higher than for non-Hispanic women.
Yet, there is something you can do about cervical cancer and it begins by being fully
aware of screening and the steps you can take to protect yourself and reduce your risk.
First, it is important to understand that virtually all cases of cervical cancer are
caused by infection with certain types of a virus called human papillomavirus, or HPV.
HPV infection is very common and is spread through *** contact.
Most HPV infections go away on their own, but some infections may persist
and lead to precancer cell changes.
If these precancer cell changes are not treated, they can become can become cancer over time.
So what do you need to know about protecting yourself?
You can start by getting a Pap test.
A Pap test is a simple test that checks for cell changes in the *** that could become cancer.
If cell changes are found early and treated, cervical cancer can be prevented.
Please talk with your doctor about when you should have this test.
Most women should have one every three years.
However, women who have had an abnormal Pap test or who have had a change in ***
partners may need a Pap test more frequently.
There is also a major medical breakthrough that can reduce your risk of cervical cancer.
For girls and young women 11-26, there are two HPV vaccines now available that prevent
infection with the two HPV types that are responsible for 70 percent of cervical cancer cases worldwide.
These vaccines have proven highly effective.
Ask your doctor about an HPV vaccine.
So much about cancer prevention and survival depends on what you know.
Take time to learn all you can about cervical cancer.
At the National Cancer Institute, we offer a variety of resources for you to turn to for more information.
You can call the Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4CANCER
or visit us on the web, at www.cancer.gov
Thank you very much.
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