New recommendations relating to breast cancer and cervical cancer screenings have caused much debate surrounding women’s health issues, especially while the health care reform bill is up for debate in Congress. Young women, and students especially, must stay up to date about cancer prevention and monitor their own health.

The new guidelines from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force advise against breast self-examination and suggest mammograms at 50 instead of 40 years old, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends women get cervical cancer screenings at 21 regardless of sexual activity. The new recommendations conflict with current practices and with advice from the American Cancer Society.

Regardless of new and old guidelines, such changes should serve as a reminder to women — especially students — to stay up to date on women’s health issues.

Students are encouraged to stay informed about changes in mammogram and cervical cancer screenings as well as self-examination and talk to their doctors about what is right for them. Women should discuss their medical histories with mothers, grandmothers, other family members and doctors to learn about their risk of breast and cervical cancer. It is crucial that women of all ages recognize changes in their bodies.

Preventative measures such as screenings and self-examination have saved thousands of women’s lives. Knowing one’s risks and taking precautions earlier in life rather than when it’s too late will save many more.