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Cervical Cancer Awareness Week is shining a light on prevention, screening, and education for thousands of people across Canada.
Jen Belcher, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives with the Ontario Pharmacists Association, says screening is one of the most effective tools for catching the disease early and reducing risk .
Cervical cancer is caused by persistent infection with the human papillomavirus, or HPV. Health data shows women living with HIV are six times more likely to develop cervical cancer compared to those without it.
An estimated 1,600 Canadian women will be diagnosed with cervical cancer this year. Belcher adds that education and open conversations are key to making sure everyone has the right information.
Experts recommend that anyone who’s been sexually active begin regular Pap tests by age 21 as part of ongoing screening.
