February 19, 2009

Turlock, Women are encouraged to take part in a free screening for cervical cancer from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Friday, March 13^th at the Emanuel Medical Plaza, 880 E. Tuolumne Road in Turlock.  Regional Cancer Services of Emanuel Medical Center is sponsoring the screening, by appointment only, as a way to reach women who might not otherwise be tested for this common cancer.   

 “Cervical cancer was once one of the most common causes of cancer deaths for American women. But since 1955, according to the America Cancer Society, the number of deaths from cervical cancer has gone down significantly due to the use of the Pap test to find the cancer early.” says Roya Dehkordi, M.D, of the Emanuel Medical Center Cancer Committee. “We are offering these free screenings to reach women who may not have insurance or a primary care physician. We want women to be able to be screened regardless of their ability to pay, because when cancers are found early, the chances of recovery are much higher.” 

The screening will include a physical exam by a physician and cancer-specific lab tests. Many of Emanuel’s physicians, nurses and support staff are volunteering their time to help with the effort. Participants and their families will also be able to visit the Cancer Services Education Center to talk with physicians, nurses and representatives from the American Cancer Society.

 “A fundamental part of Emanuel’s comprehensive cancer program is outreach, education and prevention,” said Dr. Dehkordi, who hopes to process about 60 screenings that day. “Emanuel provides a complete cancer care and resource center for the community and the screenings are an excellent way to underscore our expertise.”  

 According to the American College of Gynecologists tests for cervical cancers are recommended for women if you are 21 years of age or older, or if you became sexually active at least 3 years ago, even if you are younger than 21 years of age or are not having sex now. A woman can have cervical cancer even if she is not sexually active or having menstrual periods. Most women should continue having routine Pap tests after menopause.

 Women will be seen by appointment only by calling 664-2434.

 In addition to Emanuel Medical Center, sponsors include Stanford Emanuel Radiation Oncology Center, California Oncology of Turlock, Ruby E. Bergman Women’s Center, American Cancer Society and the physicians of Emanuel Medical Center.