To the Editor:

On June 28, PBS News Hour reported that pelvic exams for healthy women have no proven benefit. However, as reported by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, over 62.8 million pelvic exams were administered in 2010.

It appears as though insurance companies/physicians are strongly advocating for pelvic exams even though data shows they are not beneficial and in some cases can be harmful both physically and psychologically. As an advocate for women’s health, my perspective is that we should be administering the most efficient and definitive exams to detect cancer as early as possible.

Many people don’t realize that cervical cancer screening can be done without receiving a full pelvic exam.

Furthermore, the tests to check for cervical cancer are more accurate than a pelvic exam. Cervical cancer screenings save thousands of lives every year through early detection, whether it be a Pap test or contesting with an HPV test.

One thing that could really make a difference is informing the community of the free cancer screening services offered by the Cancer Services Program of St. Lawrence County, funded by the New York State Department of Health.

By contacting the Cancer Services Program one can set up an appointment for a free cancer screening with a physician. I hope people take advantage of this great opportunity to live healthier lives.

Jodi Regan

Get Healthy St. Lawrence County Cancer Services Program