The Berrien County Health Department is spreading the word about the dangers of cervical cancer during this Cervical Health Awareness Month.
Health department nurse practitioner Jennifer Parrette tells us cervical cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer when caught early. That’s why the health department recommends getting regular check-ups and being tested for HPV. She also recommends the HPV vaccine.
“Vaccines protect children before they are exposed to a disease,” Parrette said. “We recommend starting at age nine. Also, if given between the ages of nine through 14, only two doses are needed rather than if the vaccine is given at a later date, three doses would be needed.”
The HPV vaccine offers protection from more than cervical cancer.
“HPV vaccine is recommended for both males and females, preventing cervical cancer, throat cancer, penile cancer, anal cancer.”
Parrette says the recent update to the childhood vaccination schedule recommended by the CDC did not remove the HPV vaccine from the list. She says it makes sense to give a young person that protection so they can avoid serious health problems later.
“One of the few vaccines that prevents cancer. So, before exposure to a virus that we know causes cancer, let’s have the vaccine to prevent that.”
Parrette says the Berrien County Health Department offers HPV testing as well as pap smears, which are the best way to look out for signs of cervical cancer.
In addition to cervical health services, the department’s Sexual Health Clinic provides contraceptives along with education, testing, and treatment for sexually transmitted infections. Parrette says anyone can find out more by calling.
