The Cayman Islands Cancer Society has announced that it will observe the month of September as Gynaecological Cancers Awareness Month.

During the month, the society will distribute vouchers to women with restricted or no health insurance coverage, for a free Pap smear. The program is made possible this year thanks to the donation of services and reduced pricing for services by doctors and health-care facilities.

The Pap test is a screening test for cervical cancer. The society recommends that women in the Cayman Islands have their first Pap smear within two years of becoming sexually active or by the age of 21, whichever occurs sooner. Thereafter, a woman should have a Pap smear every two years or more frequently if recommended by her doctor.

Additionally, the society will be highlighting issues surrounding endometrial and ovarian cancer. Meetings will be held in the different districts, where local and visiting doctors will be doing presentations on a variety of related topics. Vouchers will be distributed at these meetings, but may also be obtained from the society’s office on Maple Road beside the Cayman Islands Hospital.

In order to increase awareness among the community, the society will also be visiting community groups and businesses. This service is offered at no cost and can be arranged by calling the society’s office.

The Cayman Islands Cancer Society is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing the development of cancer through its education programs and screening initiatives as well as providing financial assistance to cancer patients and their families with treatment related expenses.

The society also offers counselling and support to cancer patients and their families. The society funds its programs through fundraising events and donations from the public and from the corporate sector whose generosity is very much appreciated.

For more information on the society or on activities during the month of September call 949-7618 or email admin@cics.ky