Florida Health in Monroe Recognizes Cervical Health Awareness Month

Monroe Cty, Fla.— The Florida Department of Health in Monroe County recognizes January as Cervical Health Awareness Month, a time to educate, encourage and empower women to visit their health care provider for information and screening for cervical cancer.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), approximately 12,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year. In Florida, there were 914 new cases and 345 deaths from cervical cancer in 2013 (Florida Cancer Data System). Most cervical cancer cases occur in women who have never been screened with a Pap test or have not been screened in the past five years.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that is passed from one person to another during sexual activity, can lead to cancer in both men and women. Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by HPV. Since the HPV vaccine was introduced in 2006, CDC reports a 64 percent reduction in vaccine-type HPV infections among teen girls in the United States. Studies have also shown that fewer teens are getting genital warts and fewer adults are getting cervical pre-cancers. The HPV vaccination series has shown to help prevent multiple cancers, including cervical cancer in women and cancer of the head, mouth, neck and throat in both men and women.

The Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices recommends vaccinating boys and girls ages 11 to 12 years old. The HPV vaccine may be given starting at 9 years of age and through the age of 26 for those who did not get any or all of the shots when they were younger. In 2016, the department vaccinated 1,572 Monroe County residents against HPV. Vaccines are available at the following health department locations:

  • Key West, Gato Building, 1100 Simonton Street: For children age 9-17, call 305-809-5680 to schedule an appointment. Adults age 18-26, may walk-in on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 9am to Noon and 1pm to 3pm; or call (305) 809-5280.
  • Marathon, Ruth Ivins Center, 3333 Overseas Hwy: Call 305-853-7400
  • Roth Building, 50 High Point Rd: Call 305-853-7400

The department encourages women to speak with their medical provider about the most appropriate time to get a Pap test. Tests for specific HPV strains can support earlier diagnosis of cervical cancer. When found early, it is highly treatable. The following tips can reduce or prevent cervical cancer:

  • Get the HPV vaccine
  • Women age 21 to 65 should see their doctor regularly for a Pap test
  • Do not smoke
  • Limit number of sexual partners.

Lastly, the Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program is offered in Monroe County. This program provides Pap tests and mammograms to women ages 50-64 who are uninsured, at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level, and are Monroe county residents. Those who are interested or have questions may contact the following Monroe County facilities that offer the program:

  • Key West: Womankind 305-294-4004
  • Marathon: CHI Marathon Health Center: 305-743-4000 x 7106
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