Moeller Highlights Cervical Cancer Awareness Month

ELGIN, Ill. – In effort to raise awareness of January as Cervical Health Awareness Month, state Rep. Anna Moeller, D-Elgin, is encouraging women to take preventative measures to help reduce the risk of getting cervical cancer.

“Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers amongst women, and I urge the importance of getting cervical screenings and treatments to prevent life threatening conditions,” Moeller said. “It is crucial that women know the seriousness of cervical cancer but more importantly they know about the resources that are available to them.”

Cervical cancer is more likely to be curable in its early stages. Therefore it is encouraged by the American Cancer Society for women to be tested and to take certain precautions to protect themselves from developing the cancer. Cervical cancer develops out of HPV (human papillomavirus), which is currently undiagnosed in almost 80 million Americans. Through regular health screenings and the HPV vaccine, risk of developing cervical cancer is very low. Amidst the ongoing budget crisis, Moeller supported funding for the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer program which offers screenings and treatment options for Illinoisans without insurance between the ages of 35 and 64 who qualify, regardless of income.

“I understand that with the ongoing budget crisis in Illinois funding cuts are being made to programs, but the health and well-being of residents should be a priority that is reflected in the budget,” Moeller said. “I will continue my support for funding of critical services like the breast and cervical cancer program that has help to save lives, and I urge my colleagues to do the same.”

For more information please visit www.dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/life-stages-populations/womens-health-services/ibccp or contact Moeller’s constituent service office at 847-841-7130 or email StateRepMoeller@gmail.com.