Women Urged to do Regular Pap Smear Screening

April is being observed as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, and Medical Officer for St James, Dr Francine Phillips Kelly, is urging women to undergo regular pap smear screenings to support early detection and prevention.

Addressing the monthly meeting of the St. James Municipal Corporation on April 9, Dr. Phillips Kelly also encouraged men to play an active role in supporting the women in their lives to get screened.

“I’m sure for all the men who are here, you have women in your lives. Cervical cancer is real. It is a leading cancer in Jamaica but it is also preventable. With appropriate intervention, it does not have to result in illness or death,” she said.

Dr. Phillips Kelly noted a troubling trend, indicating that the age of diagnosis has been decreasing over time.

“In the past, cancer was more common among persons in their 50s and 60s, but cervical cancer is now being seen in women as young as 20,” she pointed out.

Women, particularly those who are sexually active and have not been screened within the past year, are being encouraged to visit their nearest health centre or attend screening sessions at the Montego Bay Comprehensive Health Centre, held on the third Saturday of each month without an appointment.

In the meantime, Vaccination Week will be observed from April 26 to May 2. During this period, the St. James Public Health Department will intensify efforts to administer vaccines to the general population, with a focus on vulnerable groups.

“The health department continues to provide vaccinations, particularly for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, persons with comorbidities, children, and front-line workers such as members of the JCF (Jamaica Constabulary Force) and the JFB (Jamaica Fire Brigade). We also encourage any interested individuals to take advantage of the vaccines currently available,” Dr. Phillips Kelly said.

Members of the public are being urged to contact their nearest health facility for information on vaccination sites.

“While our routine focus is often on children, that week provides an opportunity for adults to come in and receive additional vaccines,” Dr. Phillips Kelly added.

The observance will also provide persons who have lost their vaccination cards with the opportunity to validate vaccination information or restart the process.