Cervical cancer is preventable ... do your Pap smear

ANNUALLY, DURING the month of April, the Jamaica Cancer Society pauses to highlight its work and to relay the good news that there is a pathway from cervical cancer to life, through early detection by medical testing and preventative care.

It is, therefore, appropriate that for Cancer Month 2016, we will focus our efforts on cancers that affect women; and to reiterate the good news that, through testing and continuous learning, we can achieve a healthy, productive life.

Our message is simple: No woman in Jamaica should die from cervical cancer. And, it is a fact that by doing a simple annual examination, you can defeat this cancer.

Death from cervical cancer is most often due to a lack of information, neglect or the absence of self-love. Today, we need to accept the truth. We can claim victory over cervical cancer through appropriate testing and early diagnosis. All women need to seek information about cervical cancer, get a regular Pap smear which will make it possible to detect abnormal changes; and receive treatment to prevent the development of cancer of the cervix.

The messages related to cancer prevention and control have been consistent. The education strategies adopted include a strong focus on public information to provide individual persons with as much information as possible and increased access to screening services, so that

each person can take preventative action. This has contributed to a far better understanding about cervical cancer, and higher levels of appreciation for its treatment among women in our country.

Therefore, as we observe Cancer Awareness Month, let us all take responsibility for our health. Let us develop the courage and the will to do the right thing, because it is only through action that we will be able to eliminate cervical cancer as a major health problem in Jamaica.

Let us be more proactive, and give ourselves the opportunity for a longer and better quality of life. Earl Jarrett Chairman Jamaica Cancer Society Dr Sonia Copeland, director, health promotion and protection, Ministry of Health, and guest speaker at the Jamaica Cancer Society Relay For Life launch, shares a light moment with the audience at the event held on Tuesday, April 5 at the Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel.