What is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer is characterized by out of control cell growth in the cervix. In most cases, it is caused by the Herpes Papillomavirus (HPV).
Who gets Cervical Cancer?
HPV can be transmitted by sex, so any sexually active woman can be at risk. Cervical cancer is most prevalent in women over 30. To read testimonials of women who had cervical cancer,
.
How do I prevent Cervical Cancer?
Females between the ages of 9 and 26 should receive the HPV vaccine before they are exposed to HPV.
What is the HPV vaccine?
It is a shot that protects you from the main types of HPV that cause cancer. Females between the ages of 9 and 26 should receive the HPV vaccine before they are exposed to HPV. to find out more about the HPV vaccine.
for information about how to get a free HPV vaccine.
How do I know if I have Cervical Cancer?
A simple Pap test can determine whether you have cervical cancer. This test should be taken regularly so that you can catch the cancer at its earliest stages, when it is easiest to treat and cure.
Should I get a Pap test?
Women between the ages of 21 and 65 are recommended to have a Pap test. Between ages 21-30, a pap test should be done every 2 years and it should be done every 3 years for ages 30-65.
to find out more about the Pap test.
for information about how to get a free Pap test through the Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program in Texas (BCCS).
for information about how to get health insurance that covers the Pap test.
What do I do if I have Cervical Cancer?
It depends on how advanced the cancer is. First and foremost, you should ask your doctor. Possible treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
to find out more about treatment.
How will I pay for a Pap test or cancer treatment?
There are a number of county, state, and federal insurance options available.
to find out more about ways to cover your healthcare costs.
What healthcare insurance program should I apply for?
Many healthcare programs have income restrictions.
to find out which healthcare programs you qualify for.
Where are clinics near me that I can get a Pap test?
for a map of clinics in Harris County.
How can I get to the clinics?
You can take the Metro. for information regarding the Metro.
If you have Medicaid, you can qualify for free transportation. for information regarding the Medicaid Transportation Program.
If you have no other way to get to a clinic, you may use a service provided by the Red Cross. for information about the Red Cross free transportation program.