CERVICAL cancer is the fourth most common cancer in Jamaica, and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Jamaican women.

But it is considered a preventable disease, and participants in a recent Jamaica Observer Press Club urged Jamaican women to act now as the country continues its push to eliminate cervical cancer.

In a wide-ranging interview, the cervical cancer warriors had simple messages for women, including the need to conduct Pap smears regularly and the importance of getting girls, and boys, vaccinated.

The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is very effective if given before girls or women are exposed to the virus. Females up to 26 years of age can get the vaccine.

The vaccine gives the body a safe way to build immune system awareness of some HPV strains. This means the body has an easier time clearing out those strains of the virus if a person is exposed to them later.

Vaccinating boys against the types of HPV associated with cervical cancer might also help protect girls from the virus by possibly decreasing transmission. And the cancer warriors are urging Jamaicans to act now:

Dr Natalie Medley, gynaecological oncologist – We should put side all stigma related to cervical cancer being a sexual disease and [that] these are dirty [or promiscuous] women [who test positive]. We should put aside all of that and remember that every woman can be affected and every woman needs to be screened.

Dr Anna Taylor Christmas, gynaecological oncologist – The number one thing that stops women from coming for screening is fear of the Pap smear test and fear of an abnormal result but don’t be afraid, the test doesn’t hurt. It might be a little uncomfortable but it can save you a lifetime of regret and pain.

Roshane Reid Koomson, executive director, Jamaica Cancer Society – My message is simple, open up and do your Pap smear. And by open up we [mean we] want women to open up literally and figuratively. So, open up by sharing your story and open up by getting your Pap smear done. Also, open up to get your female children vaccinated. It is an awareness that we are pushing for Jamaicans –– and for women in particular.

Marcia Campbell, cervical cancer survivor — Fear might be a reason women are not doing their Pap smear. I was afraid too, but I built up my courage and I went each time so I am encouraging other women to do the same. When you hide away it won’t be the nurse alone and one doctor, it will be many doctors.

Matron Shailendra Murdock, cervical cancer clinic supervisor, University Hospital of the West Indies — Change begins with awareness, awareness of what vaccination is all about, prevention, early detection, and doing your Pap smear.