Raising awareness

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. Nearly 13,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year in the United States. The two types of tests used for cervical cancer screening are the Pap test and human papillomavirus (HPV) test.

All women should begin cervical cancer screenings at age 21, according to the American Cancer Society. In general, women ages 21-29 should have a Pap test every three years. Women ages 30-65 should have both a Pap test and an HPV test every five years. Consult with your doctor for additional screening guidelines according to your age and medical history.