Prevent Cervical Cancer by Getting Screened Regularly

Dear Editor,

Cervical cancer can be prevented! Screening tests can find the cells that lead to cancer. These cells can then be removed. This prevents cancer! Screening also helps to find cervical cancer early when it may be easier to treat.

Screening options include the Pap test, which has been used since the 1940’s and is credited with greatly reducing deaths from cervical cancer. The HPV test was added after scientists discovered that HPV causes most cervical cancers. Both tests help to prevent cervical cancer or find it early.

Whichever test you choose, it’s important to be screened regularly for cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is most common among those who have never been screened and those who rarely get screened (waiting five years or more between screenings).

If you have a cervix, start screening at age 21 and get screened every three years until age 65, or as often as prescribed by your doctor. Talk to your doctor after age 65 to see if you should still be screened.  Stay up to date with screening and follow up with your provider if your screening tests show anything abnormal.

If you don’t have insurance, the Cancer Services Program (CSP) of North Country, administered by Oswego County Opportunities, Inc. (OCO) provides free cervical cancer screening to those aged 40 and older who qualify. Most health insurers cover screening at no cost for those with insurance.

Make a plan in 2025 to call your health care provider to make sure you are up to date with your cervical cancer screening.  You can also call us at 855-592-0830 to see if you qualify for a free cervical cancer screening.

Carolyn Handville

OCO Program Coordinator

CSP of North Country

1-855-592-0830

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