According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), one of the best and most proven steps you can take to prevent cervical cancer is to have a Pap test. This screening procedure can find changes in the cervix before cancer develops. (www.cancer.org)

Texas has the highest rate of uninsured residents in the nation and the largest proportion is women.  More and more uninsured women have to forgo their own health care needs to fulfill the needs of their family. The ACS estimates that in 2005, approximately 10,370 cases of invasive cervical cancer will be diagnosed in the U.S. and 3,710 women will die. If detected early, the chances of survival increase dramatically. (www.cancer.org)

Cervical cancer tends to occur in midlife. Half of women diagnosed with this cancer are between the ages of 35 and 55. Cervical cancer occurs most often in Hispanic women; the rate is over twice that in non-Hispanic white women. African-American women develop this cancer about 50% more often than non-Hispanic white women. (www.cancer.org)

To find a local clinic, patients should call 1-800-230-PLAN or visit WWW.PPNT.ORG. PPNT also provides treatment for precancerous cervical cells and referrals for further treatment. A Pap test is part of every well woman exam PPNT provides its patients.

For 70 years, PPNT has provided compassionate medical care in North Texas. In 2004, PPNT clinics served more than 80,000 patients in its 28 clinics. PPNT also provides health education outreach to 12,000 individuals a year.

"Celebrating 70 years of providing compassionate health care in North Texas communities."  (1935-2005)

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