A national report released shows that Minnesota ranks first in the nation in its efforts against cervical cancer, receiving the report’s first-ever “Excellent” grade, but there is still room to improve. According to the third annual report, “Partnering for Progress 2007: the ‘State’ of Cervical Cancer Prevention in America,” issued by Women In Government, Minnesota scored 83% out of a possible 100%. Last year, the state received a grade of “Very Good” and a score of 81%.
“Most states have made significant progress in the fight against cervical cancer since we began our annual state-by-state assessment in 2005,” said Susan Crosby, president of Women In Government, a bi-partisan, non-profit organization of women state legislators. “However, Minnesota deserves special recognition for the strides it is making toward eliminating this disease, particularly evidenced by its lower rates of cervical cancer incidences and deaths.”
“While Minnesota is making important strides in the fight against cervical cancer, we must still do more to protect our state’s women from this preventable disease,” said State Sen. Yvonne Prettner Solon (D-District 07). “That is why I plan to introduce legislation to require HPV immunization of girls by 5th grade.”
The new report looked at current data for each state on cervical cancer incidence and mortality rates; screening rates, including for low-income women; women’s access to screening using the most up-to-date technology, rates of uninsured women; and the legislative priority being put on this issue.