Skip to content

Focus on HPV 

Unfortunately, more than 11,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with this deadly disease each year.[1] Of those women, more than 4,000 will die from the disease each year.[1]

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer, and it’s easiest to treat when detected early. Ninety-one percent of cervical cancers are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common infection that spreads through sexual activity. About 79 million Americans currently have HPV, but many of those people don’t know they are infected.[2]   

There is a vaccination available that can prevent HPV. This vaccine is approved for children beginning at age 9, but The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that healthcare providers give the vaccine at ages 11-12.  If not vaccinated as a preteen, women up to age 26 and men up to age 21 can still get the HPV vaccine - and may be eligible for a free HPV vaccination through the Delaware Division of Public Health’s Immunization program. To determine eligibility please call 1-800-282-8672.  Find out more information on the HPV vaccine.

Cervical cancer can also be prevented with regular screenings. Having a Pap test as part of a regular pelvic exam is the only way to find cervical cancer. Know when you should be screened and how often.

Schedule a screening today.

Talk to your healthcare provider about the screenings that are recommended for you or have a Nurse Navigator contact you to schedule a screening.

Uninsured? Underinsured?  

If you don’t have health insurance or are underinsured, you may be eligible for a free Pap test through the Delaware Division of Public Health’s Screening for Life program Find out if you’re eligible.


[1] U.S. Cancer Statistics Working Group. United States Cancer Statistics: 1999–2013 Incidence and Mortality Web-based Report. Atlanta (GA): Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and National Cancer Institute; 2016. Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/uscs.

[2] Content source: Division of STD Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Last Updated: January 3, 2017. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/std/hpv/stdfact-hpv.htm.