Staying on Top of Cervical Health
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oughly 11,500 new cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed each year in the United States, and cervical cancer accounts for about 4,000 deaths annually. Luckily, there are a number of ways to reduce your risk and manage your cervical health. In honor of Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, we spoke with Dr. Jordan Staton of Galen Obstetrics & Gynecology to share important information about protecting yourself and your loved ones from this disease. By Rinn Smith
What is Cervical Cancer? Cervical cancer is an abnormal growth of cells that originates in the cervix. Cervical cancer may not cause any symptoms when it first begins to develop, but as the cancer progresses it can begin to cause: • Vaginal bleeding not related to menstruation • Menstrual bleeding that is abnormally heavy or long lasting • Changes in vaginal discharge • Pelvic pain or pain resulting from intercourse Cervical cancer is often treated with surgery to remove the cancer as a first line of defense, but additional options include chemotherapy, targeted medicines, and radiation therapy. If left untreated, cervical cancer can continue to spread into surrounding tissues and cause further complications.
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Jordan Staton, MD, FACOG Specialist in Obstetrics & Gynecology, Galen Medical Group
