According (National Cervical Cancer Coalition) over 13,000 women in the U.S. are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year. Most cases can be prevented with the HPV vaccination and annual PAP screenings. January is Cervical Health Awareness Month, and that is why we encourage you to learn about cervical cancer prevention.
Cervical cancer starts in the cervix, and it’s the fourth most common type of cancer for women worldwide. Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer and over the years, it has declined by approximately 2 percent a year. The decline is due to the Pap screening that detects cervical abnormalities and allows for early treatment. According to the NCCC ‘’Most women who have abnormal cervical cell changes that progress to cervical cancer have never had a Pap test or have not had one in the previous three to five years.’’ Cervical cancer is most frequently diagnosed in women between the ages of 35 and 44.
What causes cervical cancer?
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is found in about 99% of cervical cancers. Although there are over 100 different types of HPV, most considered low-risk, high-risk HPV types may cause cervical cell abnormalities or cancer.
It is estimated that HPV is now the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States. Approximately 80% of women in their 50s, have been infected with some type of HPV. The majority do NOT develop cervical cancer. For most women the HPV infection does not last long; 90% of HPV infections resolve on their own within 2 years.
Screening Tests
Two tests help prevent cervical cancer or find it early
- The Pap test (or Pap smear) detects cell changes on the cervix that might become cervical cancer.
- The human papillomavirus (HPV) test looks for the virus that can cause these cell changes.
HPV Vaccine
The HPV vaccine protects against the types of HPV that most often cause cervical cancers. HPV can also cause other kinds of cancer in both men and women.
Ideally HPV vaccination is recommended for preteens aged 11 to 12 years but is not recommended for everyone older than age 26 years. The HPV vaccine works best when given before any exposure to HPV, because it does not treat existing infections. However, some adults that weren’t vaccinated may decide to get the HPV vaccine after speaking with their doctor. The vaccine at this age provides less benefit, please consult with your doctor on HPV vaccination.
If you have questions, or doubts about cervical cancer, screening, or prevention, talk with your healthcare provider. A routine checkup can save your life.
