January Is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month: What Every Woman Should Know
By Hasan Murshed, MD, Radiation Oncologist
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month—a time to focus on prevention, early detection, and the life-saving treatments available for cervical cancer. As a radiation oncologist who treats women at all stages of this disease, I want to share the most important information every woman and family should know.
Cervical Cancer Is Highly Preventable
Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by long-term infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Fortunately, we have two powerful tools to stop cervical cancer before it starts:
- HPV vaccination, recommended for preteens and young adults
- Routine screening, including Pap tests and HPV testing
When abnormal cells are found early, treatment is often simple and extremely effective.
Why Screening Matters
Cervical cancer often has no symptoms in its early stages. That’s why regular screening is so important. Symptoms that should never be ignored include abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, or pain during intercourse. Early detection leads to excellent cure rates and better outcomes overall.
Modern Treatment Offers Hope
Radiation therapy plays a key role in treating cervical cancer, especially when the disease is more advanced. Today’s technology allows us to deliver treatment with remarkable precision:
- Image-guided radiation therapy protects healthy organs
- Brachytherapy, a specialized internal radiation, is essential for cure
These advances help improve survival while preserving quality of life.
Breaking Fear and Stigma
A cervical cancer diagnosis can bring fear or embarrassment, but it’s important to know that HPV is extremely common and cervical cancer is not a personal failure. Patients are supported by dedicated care teams focused on both medical and emotional well-being.
Take Action This January
Cervical Cancer Awareness Month is about turning knowledge into action:
- Stay up to date on screening
- Talk with your child or young adult about HPV vaccination
- Share trusted information
- Support those undergoing treatment
Early detection saves lives—and cervical cancer is one disease we truly have the power to prevent.
Hope Regional Cancer Center Earns Prestigious ACR Accreditation for Excellence in Cancer Care
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
[Panama City, FL] – [July 3, 2025] — Hope Regional Cancer Center is proud to announce that it has received its fourth consecutive full accreditation from the American College of Radiology (ACR) in Radiation Oncology, the only one in Bay County, reaffirming its ongoing commitment to excellence in cancer care.
The ACR accreditation is recognized as the gold standard in radiation oncology, awarded only to facilities that meet the highest level of quality and patient safety. Hope Regional Cancer Center has maintained this distinction through rigorous evaluations that include peer reviews of its clinical performance, treatment protocols, staff qualifications, equipment, and quality assurance programs.
“This recognition reflects the unwavering dedication of our entire team to deliver the national level highest standards of cancer care to our patients and the community,” said Dr. Hasan Murshed, Medical Director of Hope Regional Cancer Center. “Each accreditation cycle is a reminder of our responsibility to continuously improve, innovate, and provide compassionate, evidence-based treatment.”
Hope Regional Cancer Center has served the greater Bay County area and surrounding communities for over a decade, offering state-of-the-art radiation therapy, advanced imaging, and personalized cancer treatment plans in a patient-centered environment.
About Hope Regional Cancer Center
Hope Regional Cancer Center is a physician-led, independent cancer treatment facility located in Panama City, Florida. The center provides comprehensive radiation oncology services, PET/CT imaging, and collaborative care with medical oncology, all under one roof.
Media Contact:
Randy Wahlberg
Physician Liaison
Hope Regional Cancer Center
Phone: (850)-276-9614
Email: Randall.Wahlberg@auihealth.com