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During this educational campaign, Independence Blue Cross will remindwomen ages 21-49 to receive their cervical cancer screening. In addition,women will be encouraged to discuss the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine,which is recommended for girls ages 11-12 and females ages 13-26, with theirhealth care providers. HPV is one of the most common sexually transmittedinfections in the United States and most cases of cervical cancer areassociated with previous HPV infection.
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Independence Blue Cross is providing this important reminder to membersbecause research shows that receiving the three-shot HPV vaccine andrecommended cervical cancer Pap test screening can decrease the chance ofdeveloping cervical cancer(2). However, it is important to note that even ifa woman has had the HPV vaccine, she will continue to require regular cervicalcancer screening by the Pap test and the HPV test when recommended(2).
"Our goal is to help keep our members healthy today, tomorrow, and wellinto the future," Says Dr. Esther Nash, senior medical director of PopulationHealth and Wellness at Independence Blue Cross. "Prevention is a key.Providing important reminders about health screenings and vaccinations,wellness education, and increasing members' awareness of consumer tools andresources available to them are just some of the ways we're helping to keepour members feeling great in '08 and beyond."
For more information about cervical cancer prevention, or for helplocating a participating gynecologist, members may visit Independence BlueCross's Women's Health website at www.ibxpress.com or call 215-241-3676.
About Independence Blue Cross
Independence Blue Cross is a leading health insurer in southeasternPennsylvania. Nationwide, Independence Blue Cross and its affiliates providecoverage to nearly 3.4 million people. For 70 years, Independence Blue Crosshas offered high-quality health care coverage tailored to meet the changingneeds of members, employers, and health care professionals. Independence BlueCross's HMO and PPO health care plans have consistently received the highestratings from the National Committee for Quality Assurance.
Independence Blue Cross is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross andBlue Shield Association. More information about Independence Blue Cross isavailable at www.ibx.com.
Sources:
1. American Cancer Society, 2007
2. National Cervical Cancer Coalition
SOURCE Independence Blue Cross
