Nix The Risk is a campaign that Equal Hope launched to underscore our commitment to eradicating cervical cancer in Chicago by 2040.
What you need to know:
Cervical Cancer is almost 100% preventable, however, according to WHO, in 2018 alone, an estimated 570,000 women were diagnosed with cervical cancer and about 311,000 women died from the disease.
Cervical Cancer is Primarily Caused by HPV: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the leading cause of cervical cancer. Persistent infection with high-risk HPV types can lead to the development of cervical cancer over time.
Preventable through Vaccination: The HPV vaccine is a highly effective preventive measure against cervical cancer. It is recommended for both males and females, typically administered during adolescence.
Regular Screenings are Crucial: Routine screenings, such as Pap smears and HPV tests, are essential for early detection of cervical abnormalities or cancer. Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. (If you need a cervical screening, please don't hesitate to contact us.)
Symptoms May Not be Apparent Early: In its early stages, cervical cancer may not present noticeable symptoms. Regular screenings play a vital role in detecting abnormalities before symptoms manifest.
Risk Factors Include Smoking, Poor Eating Habits and Weakened Immune System: Smoking, poor eating habits, obesity, multiple sex partners and pregnancies, and genetics increases the risk of cervical cancer, and individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV, are at higher risk.
Global Impact: Cervical cancer is a significant global health issue. While it is preventable and treatable, it remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in many parts of the worl
Disparities in Incidence and Mortality: There are disparities in cervical cancer incidence and mortality rates, with higher rates among Black and Latino populations, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions and healthcare equity.
Regular Gynecological Check-ups are Essential: Beyond screenings, routine gynecological check-ups allow healthcare providers to monitor and address any potential concerns related to cervical health.
Treatment Options: Treatment options for cervical cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The choice of treatment depends on factors such as the stage of cancer and the individual’s health.
Global Efforts for Eradication: Various organizations and initiatives work towards global cervical cancer eradication through awareness campaigns, vaccination programs, and improved access to screenings and treatment.
-----
At Equal Hope, we are actively contributing to the fight against cervical cancer by offering navigation to free PAP and HPV screenings plus any follow-up support. Click the link below if you'd like to schedule your screening.
We are asking our community to help us eradicate cervical cancer by 2040. Let's make a commitment to #NixTheRisk of cervical cancer together! Through this campaign we hope to increase awareness about the importance of regular PAP and HPV screenings among women/nonbinary/transmen of all ages; ensure adequate resources are allocated for public health initiatives related to cervical cancer prevention; advocate for policy support that makes screenings and HPV vaccinations accessible and affordable for all; and push for research on more effective prevention methods.