Definition
The rate of cervical cancer incidence in female residents of Utah or U.S. per 100,000.Numerator
The number of cervical cancer incidents among Utah or U.S. women (ICD-10: C53).Denominator
The female population of Utah or U.S.Data Interpretation Issues
Cancer diagnoses in 2020 may be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic due to the changes in health services and cancer screening accessibility.Why Is This Important?
Cervical cancer is cancer of the cervix, which connects the vagina to the uterus. Almost all cervical cancers are caused by infection with high-risk types of the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is passed from one person to another through sexual activity. HPV is very common, but not all HPV infections lead to cancer. Other common risk factors are tobacco smoking and immunosuppression, such as that caused by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)^1^.
HPV vaccination can help prevent cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine protects against the types of HPV that are associated with cervical and other cancers. HPV vaccination is recommended for preteens aged 11-12, and anyone else through age 26 if not previously vaccinated^2^. Additionally, routine Pap tests or HPV tests help prevent cervical cancer by detecting the virus or precancerous cells that might become cancer if not treated. Cervical cancer is one of the most curable cancers if detected early through routine screening. With the availability of screening tests and the HPV vaccine, cervical cancer is also highly preventable.[[br]][[br]]
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1. [https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/cervical/basic_info/index.htm][[br]]
2. [https://www.cdc.gov/hpv/parents/vaccine-for-hpv.html]How Are We Doing?
Utah's cervical cancer rate has not significantly changed over the past two decades.How Do We Compare With the U.S.?
Since 1999, Utah's rate of cervical cancer has consistently fallen below the national average. The latest comparative data reports from 2020 indicate that the cervical cancer rate in Utah was 6.2 cases per 100,000 women compared to the U.S. rate at 7.1 cases per 100,000 women.What Is Being Done?
The Utah Breast & Cervical Cancer Program (Utah B&C) partners with local health departments, community clinics, hospitals, and healthcare professionals to help those with low incomes who do not have adequate insurance gain access to timely breast and cervical cancer screening, diagnostic, and treatment services. Eligible women can apply to Utah B&C by calling 800-717-1811 or by submitting an online enrollment form available at: [https://cancerutah.org/do-i-qualify/].
In addition, the Utah Immunization Vaccines for Children (VFC) program provides low cost HPV vaccines to females ages 9 to 18 who meet income guidelines. Visit [https://immunize.utah.gov/vaccines-for-children-program/] for more information.Health Program Information
Coverage of cervical cancer screening tests is mandated by the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The Utah Breast and Cervical Cancer Program is able to refer Utah women in need of treatment for cervical cancers for full Medicaid benefits. The women must meet all requirements as outlined in the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment Act.
