January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month and Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month.

Cervical cancer is caused by abnormal cells on the cervix start to grow uncontrollably. It can often be treated successfully when found very early, often through a Pap test. Most is caused by strains of HPV, the human papillomavirus.

Although most abnormal cervical cells don’t present symptoms, there might be abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, pain during intercourse and abnormal discharge. Please visit your provider if you have any of these symptoms.

Thyroid cancer is an uncommon cancer that occurs; obviously, in the thyroid gland- the butterfly-shaped organ at the front base of your neck. Changes in DNA and overexposure to radiation are believed to increase chances of thyroid cancer.

The most obvious symptom is a lump in your throat. Pain in your neck and possibly in your ears, difficulty swallowing, wheezing, hoarseness and a frequent cough outside of illness are all possible symptoms.

It responds positively to treatment because it is often found early enough for care. Even after treatment, it is still may come back years later.

Please visit your physician regularly for routine check-ups and if you notice any changes in your body.