Let’s Wipe Out Cervical Cancer

Did you know Louisiana has one of the highest cervical cancer death rates in the country? And that’s because of a cancer from which no woman should ever die! January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month and it’s important to understand how prevention is key, so read more to find out how to protect yourself and your kids!

Regular screenings (Pap tests) are the best way to find cervical cancer early and prevent it. According to the CDC, women should start getting screened at age 21 and continue through age 64. For more specific details on age and screening times, click here: https://louisianacancer.org/cancers/cervical-cancer/.

The HPV vaccine also prevents cervical cancer, which is just one of the HPV-caused cancers that affect women and men, and which also includes vaginal, vulvar, penile, anal and oral cancers. The HPV vaccine is the only vaccine that fights cancer, and is recommended for boys and girls aged 11-12. However, if your child has missed this window, it’s not too late. Talk to their doctor today! For more information on the updated guidelines, click here: https://www.cdc.gov/hpv/hcp/schedules-recommendations.html

Below are resources for help with Pap tests and HPV vaccines.

• The Louisiana Breast and Cervical Health Program (LBCHP) provides no-cost cervical cancer screenings (Pap tests) to women who qualify. Go here for more information: https://lbchp.org/eligibility/
• The GNO Immunization Network provides vaccines to children in Orleans, Jefferson, St. Bernard, St. Tammany and St. Charles Parishes, including the HPV vaccine. Eligible children include those without insurance; with insurance that does not cover vaccines; children with Medicaid and LaChip; and children with private insurance supplemented with Medicaid. The Network operates in a number of New Orleans public schools. The HPV vaccine is also available to women over 18 for a fee or on a sliding scale. Call 504-733-3268 for more information. http://www.gnoshots4kids.com/index2.html
• Planned Parenthood provides HPV vaccines in Baton Rouge and New Orleans. Call 1-800-230-7526 (PLAN) for more information.