Arkansas is ranked among the highest states in the country for cervical cancer, according to recent data. To mark January’s National Cervical Cancer Awareness month, health experts are sounding the alarm about the importance of prevention and early detection.
According to Dr. Monique Spillman, Chief of the Division of Gynecologic Oncology at UAMS, nearly 90% of cervical cancer cases are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). While the good news is that most types of HPV can be prevented with the vaccine, some strains are linked to cancer.
Signs of cervical cancer include abnormal bleeding during periods or after sex, and it’s essential for women to get regular check-ups and screenings. Dr. Spillman emphasizes the importance of staying consistent with pap smears and HPV tests, which can help catch cancer early.
For Brittany Rose, getting diagnosed with stage one cervical cancer was a wake-up call to prioritize her health. After undergoing a radical hysterectomy, she lost her chance at having children but credits regular check-ups for saving her life.
The high rate of cervical cancer in Arkansas is attributed to factors such as smoking and access to healthcare. Dr. Spillman stresses the need for women to have uninterrupted access to pap smears, which can be limited by financial or childcare constraints.
As January’s awareness month comes to a close, health experts urge women to prioritize their cervical cancer screenings and stay vigilant about HPV prevention. By taking proactive steps, they can reduce their risk of developing this potentially deadly disease.
Source: https://katv.com/news/local/arkansas-woman-shares-cervical-cancer-journey-stresses-early-detection-importance-brittany-rose-radical-hysterectomy-saved-life-doctor-monique-spillman-chief-division-gynecologic-oncology-university-arkansas-medical-sciences-ninety-percent-hpv-early