Get the Facts
When there's so much else going on in your life, it's not surprising that the risk of cervical cancer isn't on your radar. But cervical cancer should be on your radar, even when you're young, healthy, and in the prime of your life.
Know the facts about cervical cancer—don't be fooled by myths. Here is some information to help you separate fact from fiction on this important health concern for women of all ages.
| CERVICAL CANCER MYTH | CERVICAL CANCER FACT |
| Cervical cancer isn't a big health concern. INCORRECT! |
Cervical cancer is a big concern for many women. In the US, about 11,000 women are diagnosed with and 4,000 die from cervical cancer each year. Think about it—that means that every 47 minutes another woman is diagnosed with this cancer. |
| Only older women are affected by cervical cancer. NOT TRUE! |
In the US, cervical cancer is the second most common cause of cancer-related death in women in their 20s and 30s. |
| Only women with a family history of cervical cancer can get it. FALSE! |
Cervical cancer is caused by a sexually transmitted viral infection. Any girl or woman who becomes infected with a cancer-causing virus called HPV (human papillomavirus) can potentially develop cervical cancer. |
I'll notice symptoms that might be cervical cancer. Then I'll see my doctor so it can be taken care of early. VERY UNLIKELY! |
There are rarely any signs or symptoms at the early stage, when cervical cancer is most treatable. |
| Nothing I do now will impact me in terms of cervical cancer. ABSOLUTELY UNTRUE! |
There are things you can do today: talk to your doctor, get vaccinated, and make lifestyle changes |
Now that you have read the facts, why not focus on the actions you can take today to help prevent cervical cancer? Talk to your doctor about vaccination and regular Pap tests to help you prevent cervical cancer.
