Lieutenant governor warns to prevent cervical cancer

NEWS 9

The lieutenant governor has joined with state department of health and OU Health Science Center to warn women about the dangers of cervical cancer and the steps that can be taken to prevent the disease.

The state ranks 12th in the nation with nearly 180 women suffering from the disease each year. About 60 of those women die from the disease, but a simple test can prevent the cancer from being deadly.

"Cervical cancer can be prevented," Lt. Governor Jari Askins said. "A simple pap test can detect abnormal cells, which if they're removed will prevent the cancer from killing women in Oklahoma."

Lt. Governor Askins says there are state funds available to women who are uninsured or unable to pay for a pap test.