Screenings save lives: Presentation on breast and cervical cancer prevention
by Riley King - News and Opinion Editor
The end of January also marked the end of Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, making the recent Panhellenic presentation on cervical and breast cancer especially timely. Students had the opportunity to learn more about prevention, detection, and local resources from Graci Scharping, the Information and Outreach Specialist at the Knox County Health Department.
Scharping discussed risk factors for both cancers and emphasized the importance of regular screenings. She also highlighted the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program, a state-funded program that provides free breast exams, mammograms, pelvic exams, and Pap tests to eligible women.
The program helps residents of Knox, Henderson, and Warren counties who are uninsured, low-income, have a high-risk of breast or cervical cancer, or show breast cancer symptoms. Breast cancer screenings are available to individuals ages 40 to 64, while cervical cancer screenings are offered to those 21 to 64.
“It is important for college students to know about the risk factors for breast and cervical cancers now, as prevention is key,” said Scharping. “Regular Pap tests can catch precancerous cells before they develop into cervical cancer.”
The presentation also focused on prevention and early detection. Scharping explained that cervical cancer can occur in anyone with a cervix and is most often caused by HPV if left untreated. In the early stages, cervical cancer may not present any symptoms, which is why routine screenings are the best prevention method. While breast cancer most often affects women over 40, younger women can perform self-checks and should contact their doctor with any concerns.
Those eligible for the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program can contact the Knox County Health Department at (309) 344-2224 to learn more or schedule screenings.