RaeAnn Tucker
Director of Health Promotion
January 3, 2025
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, along with First Choice Healthcare, are promoting National Cervical Health Awareness and Cervical Cancer Prevention Month in January. They highlight that around 12,000 women in the U.S. are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year, and over 4,000 die from it, with half of these cases occurring in women who are rarely or never screened.
Early detection through regular Pap tests and the HPV vaccine can prevent almost all cases of cervical cancer, which is highly treatable when detected early. Most cervical cancer cases occur in women under 50, and deaths could largely be prevented with regular checkups.
First Choice Healthcare in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon encourages women to get well-woman exams, Pap smears, and HPV vaccinations. The HPV vaccine, which is most effective before sexual activity begins, is available for both girls and boys aged 9-18 and can help prevent cervical cancer by protecting against HPV infection.
For more information on women's health services, the HPV vaccine series, or to schedule an appointment at any location call Kewanee (309) 852-5272; Colona (309) 792-4011; or Toulon (309) 852-3115 or visit our website at www.henrystarkhealth.com, find us on Facebook at Henry and Stark County Health Departments, or Follow Us on Twitter and Instagram.