January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. Promoting cervical cancer awareness, prevention and treatment requires a comprehensive approach — from expanding care access to spotlighting providers, screening education and community partnerships.
Below are five cervical cancer–related updates from Northside’s News Center over the past year that highlight progress in care.
1. Cervical cancer prevention through awareness, featuring Dr. Melissa Vogt
Public health efforts continue with campaigns that emphasize cervical cancer screening as a lifesaving tool. Dr. Melissa Vogt, a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist, highlights the importance of Pap tests and HPV testing, which can detect abnormal changes before cancer develops, and encourages women to begin regular screenings at age 21. The article also addresses recognizing symptoms and how prevention can save lives.
2. “Northside 101: GYN Cancers” education video with Dr. Guilherme Cantuaria
Northside released Northside 101: GYN Cancers, an educational video in which gynecologic oncologist Dr. Guilherme Cantuaria explains how genetics, family history and lifestyle factors affect the risk of cervical and other gynecologic cancers. He reviews screening guidelines, including Pap and HPV tests, and discusses genetic testing and preventive care, helping patients better understand their risks and the importance of monitoring.
3. Expanded gynecologic oncology care in Georgia
Georgia Gynecologic Oncology has expanded patient access to specialized care with new providers and locations.
- Drs. Rachel Brightwell and Naixin Zhang joined the Lawrenceville office.
- New offices in Braselton and Duluth are also serving patients — Dr. Brightwell began seeing patients in Braselton on Jan. 22. Dr. Stephen Salmieri, Jennifer Leech, CNP, and Kelley Harrelson, MSN, FNP-C, will begin seeing patients in Duluth on Jan. 29.
4. Northside and Georgia CORE expand cancer care access
Northside Hospital Cancer Institute continued its long-standing partnership with Georgia CORE — the Center for Oncology Research and Education — and the Georgia Cancer Control Consortium to broaden access to cancer care, including cervical cancer screening, prevention and support services statewide. The collaboration focuses on education, advocacy and connecting patients to clinical trials, screening services and survivorship resources, especially in under-resourced communities.
5. New minimally invasive GYN surgery at Northside Cherokee
Northside Hospital Cherokee now offers vNOTES — vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery — a minimally invasive technique used for hysterectomy and other gynecologic procedures, including treatment for uterine and cervical cancer. The approach can lead to less pain, shorter recovery times and no visible scarring.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CERVICAL CANCER CARE AT NORTHSIDE
