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Cervical Cancer Awareness Month

Date: 01/31/24

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. This cancer affects the cells of the cervix which is part of the lower area of a woman’s uterus. The goal of regular screening for cervical cancer is to catch any cells that do not look normal and get treatment before the cancer can develop.

Cervical cancer found at early stages is usually easier to treat. Most test methods are done by your OB/GYN. There are two ways to screen for cervical cancer:

  1. The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) test checks for HPV, which is a virus that causes infections in the cells of the cervix and is a cause of cervical cancer.    
    • According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website, the HPV vaccine is available to eligible children as young as 9 years old to help prevent HPV from forming.
  2. Pap smears done by your OB/GYN collect cells to check for changes caused by HPV. They can also detect cells that might develop into cancer in the future. 
    • The National Cancer Institute website recommends that women start getting pap smears at age 21. However, prevention can start even earlier than age 21.

Superior wants you stay healthy. That’s why we offer a $50 reward for STAR+PLUS female members between ages 18 to 64 who complete a recommended cervical cancer screening.*

For more information about cervical cancer and how to get screened for it, call Member Services using Superior’s phone directory or visit the resources below:

 

*Restrictions and limitations apply.