Prevention is Better than a Cure

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND) is committed to informing and reminding our members of the importance of preventive services that are available. As part of this effort, we are sending out a cervical cancer prevention communication to our female Medicaid Expansion population.

This population shows low numbers for utilizing preventive cancer services like the Human papillomavirus vaccine (HPV). To help raise awareness of the benefits of these services, we are sending out 4,200 postcards with the following information and wanted you to be aware.

To reduce your risk of cervical cancer:

• Ask your doctor about the HPV vaccine
• Have routine pelvic and pap exams beginning at age 21 and repeat as care team recommends
• Practice safe sex — Use protection and limit your number of sexual partners

Cervical Cancer and HPV
It isn’t clear what causes cervical cancer, but it’s certain HPV plays a role.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the HPV vaccine according to this schedule:

• Ages 11-14: Two doses at least six months apart
• Ages 15-26: Begin vaccine series of three doses
• Over 26: Not recommended for everyone