The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a virus that is wildly spreading throughout
the country. It is so common that most people get it at some point in
their lives. In most cases, the immune system clears the virus before
it is detected. If not cleared, HPV can cause multiple cancers such as
anal, cervical, throat, vaginal and vulvar cancers in women and anal,
penile and throat cancers in men.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Indiana
is ranked among some of the highest states in the country for HPV-associated
cancer rates with almost 13 out of 100,000 people being diagnosed from
2009 to 2013. Illinois’ rates are not far behind with 12 out of
100,000 people. In fact, a cancer caused by HPV is diagnosed every 20
minutes in the United States.
With the rise of HPV diagnoses and associated cancers, it is important
to understand the virus and how it can be prevented. Good Samaritan is
offering a valuable opportunity to learn more about the human papillomavirus
on Tuesday, October 24. This free event, titled HPV & Cancer –
“What You Need to Know,” will be at the Vincennes Fortnightly
Building located at 421 N. Sixth Street from 7 to 8 p.m. (EST).
Debra Hardwick, Community Health Coordinator says that this forum will
address cancer prevention in the community. "Community Health’s
mission is to improve the health of our population and being involved
in educating our public is crucial to promoting wellness. Even as nurses
we were unaware of the increase in head, neck and other cancers caused
by HPV, as well as other details about the disease and vaccine.”
Dr. Mark Pajeau, Board Certified Oncologist at Good Samaritan, will be
the keynote speaker. He will be discussing HPV and its relationship to
cancers, including cancers of the head and neck. Dr. Pajeau will also
speak about the use of HPV vaccinations.
“HPV is a growing concern in our community and the more information
we can provide, the better chance we have at decreasing the number of
cancers that can occur from the virus,” said Dr. Pajeau. “I
encourage everyone to attend the forum to learn more about HPV and how
it can be prevented.”
Various local physicians will serve as a panel to answer questions from
participants. All are welcome to attend this free informational session.
Light refreshments will be served and a $50 Visa gift card will be given
away as a door prize. If you would like more information or have any questions
about the event, please call Good Samaritan Community Health at 812-885-8753.