Each year in France, 3,000 cases of cancer of the cervix are detected and more than 1,100 women die from it. It is one of the only cancers for which the prognosis is deteriorating in France, with a 5-year survival rate of 63% between 2010-2015, compared to 68% in 1989-1993.
However, it can be detected early, or even avoided, thanks to gynecological follow-up and regular screening between the ages of 25 and 65.
3,000 cases and 1,100 deaths per year
The Allier Primary Health Insurance Fund (CPAM) and the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Cancer Screening Coordination Center are sounding the alarm. Indeed, according to the latest 2017-2019 data from Public Health France, the participation rate in cervical cancer screening in Allier is 56.1%.
This is 2 points below the national average (58.2%) and 6.2 points below the AURA regional average (62.3%).
A low screening rate in the Allier
Allier is the department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region where the rate of participation in cervical cancer screening is the lowest, after Cantal.
The participation rate decreases significantly with age, starting at age 50 and falling to 43.4% for women aged 60-65.
Although these latest data date from the 2017-2019 period, the participation rate for cervical cancer screening (but also for breast cancer screening and colorectal cancer screening) has not improved. with the health crisis: screening consultations decreased considerably in 2020 and 2021.
Papillomavirus
Cervical cancer is mainly due to a genital infection caused by viruses called “human papillomavirus” or “human papillomavirus” (HPV). Very common, these viruses are most often transmitted during sexual intercourse. The first prevention is therefore to protect oneself from HPV infections, responsible for cancer of the cervix, but also other cancers (anus, vulva, ENT, etc.). Vaccination against HPV
concerns boys and girls from 11 to 14 years old with a possible catch-up up to 19 years old inclusive. The vaccine is covered at 65% by Health Insurance and complementary organizations complete the reimbursement.
However, vaccination against HPV does not offer protection against all carcinogenic HPVs, nor against existing infections. This is why it is important for women to get regular screening for cervical cancer.
Ending cervical cancer
It is important to get vaccinated before the start of sexual life: 60% of HPV contaminations occur during the first year following the start of sexuality.
Pascal Larcher
Screening instructions
Screening is recommended for women aged 25 to 65, even vaccinated against HPV, even in the event of cessation of sexual intercourse, even after menopause.
Moulins
03000