Errington resolution recognizes January as Cervical Cancer Month

INDIANAPOLIS — A resolution authored by State Rep. Sue Errington (D-Muncie) that recognizes January as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month was unanimously passed today by the House.

Cervical cancer is almost 100-percent preventable yet approximately 250 women in Indiana are diagnosed with the illness each year. Of these women, approximately 85 die annually.

“With the right treatment and preventative care, Indiana women could be protected from the devastating effects of the disease,” said Errington. “By recognizing January as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, we can bring cervical cancer to the forefront of people’s minds.”

Many women are unaware of the measures that can be taken to prevent this disease, including regular Pap tests and the HPV vaccination.

“Nearly 80 million Americans are currently infected with HPV, which is the leading cause of cervical cancer,” said Errington. “Many of these people are unaware they have the infection or that it could lead to more serious medical issues.

“The mortality rate from cervical cancer can be attributed to poor access to preventative services and a lack of understanding about the care a woman should receive should she have an abnormal reading,” said Errington. “I find it deeply concerning that Indiana women are being diagnosed with a preventable disease.”

The resolution also honors Ms. Melissa Beeson, a cervical cancer survivor who has worked tirelessly to call attention to cervical cancer prevention.

“We need to address cervical cancer as an issue within our community,” said Errington. “With this resolution, we can remove the barriers that are keeping Indiana women from the information and care that they need.”

Errington has demonstrated her support for improvements in women’s healthcare in the past, advocating for legislation to increase the HPV vaccination rate in the 2015 session of the General Assembly.