January is National
Cervical Cancer Awareness month, and Maine CDC encourages Maine women to schedule a Pap test,
especially if it has been five or more years since the last test.
“Regularly scheduled
Pap tests are critical in preventing cervical cancer,’’ said Dr. Sheila
Pinette, Director of Maine CDC. “With the holiday rush over, now may be the
perfect time to schedule a test.”
But going for a
routine Pap test can make all the difference - helping medical staff spot
potentially cancerous cells growing on the cervix, or neck of the womb, before
it’s too late, said Dr. Pinette.
Women should check with
their doctor to find out if they need a Pap test or other cancer screenings,
including a mammogram, a FIT test (Fecal Immunochemical Test), or a
colonoscopy.
For more information
about breast,
cervical,
or colorectal
cancer, or to learn if you qualify
for free screening, women should call 1-800-350-5180 and press 1
