The Coordination of Integral Health Services of Student Welfare of the Universidad Industrial de Santander (UIS) carried out the day “Catch up with the cytology”, an initiative in which women of the university community have free access to this test and receive an informative talk about its importance in the prevention and early detection of diseases, especially cervical cancer.
Awareness and prevention
Before the procedure, the attendees were informed about the recommended age and frequency of the cytology test. Janeth Rodriguez Medina, a nurse from Student Welfare, said: “We recommend that the cytology should be performed annually, after the beginning of sexual life. Although the regulations may indicate a different frequency, our objective is prevention”.
In addition, prior to the test, the participants received an induction with a cervical simulator, a tool that allowed them to learn about the procedure and dispel concerns, especially for those who were undergoing the cytology for the first time.
“Many students arrive with fear, so we use the simulator to explain what the process is like. This helps to reduce anxiety and to better understand the importance of this exam in the early detection of cervical cancer, one of the main causes of morbidity in women,” added Rodríguez Medina.
Appreciation for the initiative
The 40 or so students who participated in the event highlighted the importance of this type of initiative at the university.
“I think it is excellent that they give us this opportunity for free and with clear information. It motivates us to take care of ourselves and to take advantage of the services offered by Bienestar Estudiantil,” said Karen Pachón, a Mathematics student.
Alisson Guerrero Salcedo, a Metallurgical Engineering student, highlighted the quality of the support provided. “The specialists were very detailed in their explanations and made us feel confident. It was a positive experience.
The results of the cytology tests will be available in a maximum of 15 days, and the students will receive a notification in their e-mail with the invitation to go to Student Welfare to know them.
