Pap smear can save your life. Cervical cancer is curable if treated early.
Cervical Cancer:
-The third most common cancer in women, following breast and ovarian cancer.
- Every year, more than 11,000 women in U.S develop cervical cancer. ("STD Facts - Human Papillomavirus (HPV)")
- The tumor develops very gradually.
- Malignant tumors are seen in the cervix and they can metastasize.
-It is caused by Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)
-HPV associated primary tumor are reported in the cervix, vulva, vagina, penis, anus, back of the tongue and tonsils.
-Sexually active men and women are at high risk of getting HPV infection
How to reduce risk for cervical cancer?
-HPV vaccination for males and females between 9 to 26 years of age.
- Limit sex partners.
-Use condom during sex.
- Do a Pap test at the health care center and follow up with the health care provider.
- Avoid smoking.
Guideline for cervical cancer screening:
-Pap test is recommended from 21 years of age and needs to be repeated every three years.
-Women above 65 years of age or those who do report a negative Pap test and are sexually inactive, can discontinue test, following discussion with healthcare provider.
-Screening helps to reduce death rate associated with cervical cancer.
-Screening facilitates early detection and treatment of cancer.
-Highly recommended for sexually active men and women.
Work Cited
"STD Facts - Human Papillomavirus (HPV)". Cdc.gov. N.p., 2016. Web. 15 June 2016.
