How to Prevent Cervical Cancer or Find It Early

By Stacy Simon RESOURCES: Cervical Health Awareness Month Cervical cancer prevention and early detection HPV and cervical cancer Cervical cancer was once one of the most common causes of cancer death for American women. But over the past several decades, screening – testing for cancer before symptoms develop – has reduced cervical cancer deaths, as doctors have been able to find and treat problems before they become cancer – or find cancer early when it’s easier to treat. The Pap test can find abnormal cells early so they can be treated before they become cancer. The Pap test can also find cervical cancer early, when it’s easier to treat. The HPV test finds human papilloma virus (HPV) infections. Being infected with HPV can increase the risk of getting cervical cancer. HPV infections are very common, and most go away by themselves and don’t cause problems. But in some cases, they lead to abnormal cell changes and cancer. The HPV test may be used along with a Pap test, or to help doctors decide on the next steps for women who have an abnormal Pap test. Screening Guidelines Following the American Cancer Society guidelines can help find cervical cancer early, and can also find pre-cancers, which can be treated to keep cervical cancer from forming. All women should begin cervical cancer screening at age 21. Women between the ages of 21 and 29 should have a Pap test every 3 years. They should not be tested for HPV unless it i...
Source: American Cancer Society :: News and Features - Category: Cancer & Oncology Tags: Cervical Cancer Source Type: news