Cervical Health Awareness Month in Assisted Living
Diseases of the Cervix can impose serious health complications in reproductive health. Cervical Cancer for one is the fourth most common cancer in women affecting millions of women worldwide. In the United States alone, an estimated 4,000 women die each year because of this disease. As we welcome Cervical Health Awareness Month, it is important to learn more about the disease for cure and most of all, to stop it before it starts. The annual activity is the perfect opportunity to raise awareness in assisted living and other women’s communities about Cervical Cancer.
Understanding Cervical Health in Seniors in Assisted Living
Cervical cancer is most common in young women, but this does not mean senior women are safe from getting the disease. However, researchers from the Washington University of Medicine found that 25% of the new diagnoses are found in women 65 and up.
With that, seniors in assisted living should still be informed about the causes of cervical disease and how to protect themselves from getting the disease. With heightened awareness, it is now easier for senior women to detect the disease early, allowing them to live a fulfilling life.
Signs and Symptoms
Abnormal vaginal bleeding between periods or after sexual intercourse is a common sign of cervical cancer.
Persistent pain the in pelvic area is another symptom of cervical disease.
Pain or discomfort
Difficulty in bowel or urinary movement is another sign of cervical cancer.
Persistent fatigue is indicative of advanced cervical cancer.
Sudden or unexplained weight loss is not linked to a change in lifestyle.
Prevention
Women experiencing any or most of these symptoms must consult with their primary care provider as soon as possible. Being diagnosed with the disease can be scary and shocking at the same time. But if detected early, this is treatable.
Screening is one of the easiest ways to prevent cervical cancer.
Vaccination of Cervix and Gardasil is another way to protect women from HPV infection.
Common Types of Treatment
- Surgery
- Radiation Therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted Therapy
- Immunotherapy
Cervical Health Education in Assisted Living Communities
Cervical Health education must be ensured in assisted living communities for the well-being of senior women. Educational programs tailored to their unique needs must be made available for implementation and dissemination. This includes the importance of regular screening, vaccination, and early detection of cervical issues.
These tailored programs would empower senior women with knowledge, preventive measures, and available resources. In addition, promoting cervical health awareness fosters a supportive environment and proactive health engagement, allowing women residents to make informed decisions that will positively impact their cervical health and well-being.
Tips for Cervical Health Maintenance | Assisted Living
Women experiencing the above-mentioned symptoms or diagnosed with cervical health issues must talk and keep in touch with their healthcare team.
- Schedule a regular Papsmear and HPV screenings
- Get the HPV vaccine.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle like getting regular exercise and eating a healthy balanced diet.
- Stay informed about cervical health.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Managing stress as chronic stress can negatively affect your immune system.
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Fallbrook Assisted Living is proud to offer its services to Fremont, NE, and surrounding areas and cities: Arlington, Cedar Bluffs, Ames Nickerson, Fontanelle, Arlington, Leshara, Colon, and Hooper
