January is Cervical Health Awareness Month, and Florida State College at Jacksonville Nursing Programs want you to know that there’s a lot you can do to prevent cervical cancer. HPV (human papillomavirus) is the most common sexually transmitted disease. It’s also a major cause of cervical cancer. About 79 million Americans currently have HPV, but many people with HPV don’t know they are infected.

The good news?

• HPV can be prevented by the HPV vaccine
• Cervical cancer can often be prevented with regular screening tests (called Pap tests) and follow-up care.

In honor of National Cervical Health Awareness Month, FSCJ encourages the following, after consulting with your personal health care provider:

• Women to start getting regular Pap tests at age 21
• Women to get the HPV vaccine before age 27
• Parents to make sure their pre-teens get the HPV vaccine at age 11 or 12
• Men to get the HPV vaccine if you are under age 22

Thanks to the health care reform law, you and your family members may be able to get these services at no cost to you. Check with your insurance company.

Taking small steps can help keep you safe and healthy.

If you have not selected a primary care provider, this service may be provided by some of the Ambulatory convenience clinics. Make this year’s focus “a healthier you.”