The DeKalb County Board of Health reminds women to be screened regularly for cancer. Women who are overdue for a checkup should make time in their schedule for this important visit.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends an annual clinical breast exam, Pap smear and pelvic exam. This recommendation applies to women ages 18 and older, and those under 18 who are sexually active. In addition to screening for breast, cervical and uterine cancers, the clinician will provide instruction on self-breast exam and order any follow-up tests that may be necessary.

The DeKalb County Board of Health offers an array of women's health screenings. A routine visit includes a clinical breast exam, Pap smear, pelvic exam and anemia screening. Individuals can receive services at any of the Board of Health's six centers where fees are on a sliding scale.

Women age 40 and over who are low-income and uninsured or underinsured are the focus of the Breast and Cervical Cancer Program. Women between 35 and 39 who are at risk for or have symptoms of breast cancer may also be seen. In addition to routine services, the program provides other diagnostic tests, such as mammography and colposcopy, at no cost to the patient.

Colposcopy may be recommended following an abnormal Pap smear result. The procedure uses an instrument similar to a microscope to look closely at abnormal cells in the cervix. This service is funded by the Georgia state legislature to help provide state-of-the-art diagnostic gynecological exams through public health departments.

For more information about the Board of Health's women's cancer services, call (404) 294-3700 or visit dekalbhealth.net.

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