Media Contact:
McHenry County Department of Health
Nick Kubiak, Community Information Coordinator
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month
MCHENRY COUNTY, IL – The McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) and the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (IBCCP) would like to remind the public that January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), anyone with a cervix is at risk for cervical cancer, though it primarily affects those over the age of 30. The primary cause of cervical cancer is the prolonged presence of specific types of human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus transmitted through sexual activity.
The HPV vaccine is recommended for males and females and plays a crucial role in preventing cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine protects against types of HPV that most often cause cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers. HPV vaccination is recommended for preteens aged 11 to 12 years, but can be given starting at age 9. Vaccination is also recommended for everyone through age 26 years if they are not vaccinated already. In addition to getting the HPV vaccine, using condoms during sex and not smoking have both been proven to lower your risk for cervical cancer.
Recommended pelvic exams and screenings for HPV virus can provide detection of the virus that can cause cancers. The Pap test looks for precancerous cells or cervical cancer cells. Early detection by regular exams and screenings significantly enhances treatment effectiveness, leading to high survival rates and a good quality of life for those affected.
MCDH’s Immunization Program provides the HPV vaccine at no cost or reduced cost based on eligibility. Sliding scale fees are also available based on eligibility. Call 815-334-4500 for more information or an appointment to receive the HPV vaccine. Immunization Clinics are offered at both MCDH locations, 2200 N. Seminary Avenue in Woodstock and 100 N. Virginia Street in Crystal Lake.
MCDH’s IBCCP offers free pelvic exams and Pap tests to eligible women – there is no income requirement needed to receive services. Free services are available if you are:
- Living in McHenry County
- Uninsured, underinsured, insured with a high deductible (IBCCP contracted providers), or not eligible to receive Medicare Part B
- 21 to 64 years old
To schedule your free pelvic exam or pap test, please contact MCDH’s IBCCP at (815) 334-0232. Enrollment services are provided at MCDH’s Crystal Lake location at 100 N. Virginia Street.
To learn more about all services provided at MCDH, visit MCDH.info.
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