Cervical cancer screenings prevent cancer – every woman should be screened regularly

On By idhwmediaIn Public Health

cervicalawareness_earlydetection

All women, especially those over the age of 30, are at risk for developing cervical cancer, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say it’s also the easiest gynecologic cancer to prevent, with regular screening. Regular screenings are the most effective way to find the disease early and treat it. Unfortunately, Idaho has the lowest rate for cervical screening in the United States – we are 50th in the nation. We can do better!

Who is most at risk?

Almost all cervical cancers are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that can be passed from one person to another during sex. HPV is so common that most people get it at some time in their lives. For most women, HPV will go away on its own; however, if it does not, there is a chance that over time it may cause cervical cancer.

Other factors increasing the risk of cervical cancer are not getting screened, being HIV positive, and smoking. Smoking doubles a woman’s risk of getting cervical cancer.

What are the most common symptoms?

It usually causes no symptoms in the early stages of the disease. That’s why regular screening is so important.

What can be done to help prevent cervical cancer?

Women can get regular screenings and get the HPV vaccine. There are two tests that can help prevent cervical cancer:

  1. The Pap test looks for changes in cells on the cervix that may become cervical cancer if they are not treated appropriately. Women should start getting Pap tests at age 21.
  2. The human papillomavirus (HPV) test looks for the virus that can cause cell changes.

The most important thing a woman can do to help prevent cervical cancer is to have regular screenings starting when she’s 21. The HPV vaccine is recommended for preteen boys and girls at age 11 or 12, so they are protected before ever being exposed to the virus. The vaccine is available for teens and adults through age 26.

How often should women get tested?

Women should talk with their doctors about how often they should get screened, but generally, all women ages 21-65 should be screened once every 3-5 years. Early detection saves lives! Idaho’s Women’s Health Check program can help low-income, uninsured women who qualify receive free screenings for breast and cervical cancers. You’ll find more information at www.womenshealthcheck.dhw.idaho.gov or by calling the Idaho Careline at 2-1-1.

(Note: A Closer Look At Your Health airs on Tuesday mornings at 6:50. This is an edited transcript of the segment from Jan. 22.)

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