The Florida Department of Health in Leon County Recognizes National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month 

In observance of January as National Cervical Health Awareness Month, the Florida Department of Health in Leon County (DOH Leon) is encouraging women to get screened for cervical cancer. Each year, about 12,000 U.S. women are diagnosed with cervical cancer, but it can be prevented.

“Cervical cancer screening rates have declined sharply, nationally, during the COVID-19 pandemic. As we kick off 2022, we are encouraging women in Leon County to turn that trend around by resolving to prioritize cervical health,” said Sandon S. Speedling, MHS, CPM, CPH, DOH Leon Interim Health Officer.

“It is so important to get screened regularly so that cervical cancer can be detected in its early stages when it’s easier to treat,” said Speedling. “Our Department is helping at-risk women receive these vital screenings through the Florida Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program.”

The BCCEDP provides services that include Pap tests for women ages 50-64 who have low income and are underinsured or uninsured.  To learn more about the program in Leon County, call 850-404-6404.

While the disease is almost totally treatable or preventable with routine screening, reports from the Florida Department of Health indicate almost 300 women die each year in Florida from cervical cancer.

More information about cervical cancer is posted on the CDC website.

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 Written by: 

Pamela Saulsby | Public Information Officer