In 2006, seventy-two Mississippi women died from cervical cancer, a preventable disease. The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) encourages women to take preventive measures to reduce their chance of being diagnosed with cervical cancer during January, National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month.

"A regular Pap test with pelvic exam remains the most effective way to detect pre-cancerous cells in the earliest and most treatable stages," said Dr. LeDon Langston, OB-GYN Medical Consultant for the MSDH. "Early detection is every woman's best protection against cervical cancer, and prompt treatment can significantly reduce suffering and death caused by this disease. No woman should die from cervical cancer."

Factors that contribute to cervical cancer include a history of sexually transmitted diseases, smoking, high-fat diets, and sexual intercourse at an early age, according to Dr. Langston.

Women who are at high risk should have an annual Pap test done. Those who are not at high risk and have had three normal Pap tests should have a Pap test every other year. Dr. Langston also offers this advice for Mississippi women: have a Pap test done within three years of being sexually active or by the age of 21.

Through its Breast and Cervical Cancer Program, MSDH educates women about breast and cervical cancer, as well as offering free cancer screenings to those who qualify.

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Press Contact: Liz Sharlot , Elizabeth Grey or Carol Jarvis Jones, (601) 576-7667