{"id":27818,"date":"2023-01-25T11:50:36","date_gmt":"2023-01-25T19:50:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/truecare.org\/?p=27818"},"modified":"2023-10-03T12:54:01","modified_gmt":"2023-10-03T19:54:01","slug":"how-to-protect-yourself-from-cervical-cancer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/truecare.org\/blog\/how-to-protect-yourself-from-cervical-cancer\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Protect Yourself from Cervical Cancer"},"content":{"rendered":"

For a long time, cervical cancer was one of the most common causes of cancer death for women in the U.S.<\/strong> Now, thanks to the increased use of two highly effective screening tests \u2013 the Pap test<\/strong><\/a> and HPV test<\/strong><\/a> \u2013 the death rate has dropped significantly over the last 50 years. These tests make it possible to detect cervical cancer at a very early stage where treatment can be much more effective. As a result, cervical cancer is no longer a leading cause of cancer deaths. Yet, in 2022 the American Cancer Society<\/a><\/strong> estimated more than 14,000 women in the U.S. would be diagnosed with invasive cervical cancer.<\/p>\n

Less than half of women who contract cervical cancer are diagnosed at an early stage. Having regular screening tests and paying attention to any signs and symptoms<\/strong><\/a> of cervical cancer is the best way to avoid delays in diagnosis and improve your chances of surviving the disease.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe best prevention for cervical cancer in women is screenings,\u201d says Dr. Suzanne Schweikert. \u201cCervical cancer has very few symptoms – bleeding usually occurs late in the disease – which is why we screen all women. It\u2019s the best way to detect any signs of cervical cancer at an early stage when treatment is most effective.\u201d<\/p>\n

The following blog provides additional information about cervical cancer in women for self-awareness and preventative steps to ensure your best health journey.<\/p>\n

What Causes Cervical Cancer<\/h2>\n

The main cause of cervical cancer is a long-lasting infection from certain types of human Papillomavirus (HPV)<\/strong><\/a>, a common virus passed from one person to another during sex. Most sexually active people become infected with HPV at some point in their lives. However, for most women it usually goes away on its own. If not, it can cause cervical cancer. <\/p>\n

Other factors can increase the chances of developing cervical cancer. Smoking tobacco can cause cancer anywhere in the body, including the cervix. Having HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, and other conditions that weaken the immune system can also lead to cervical cancer.<\/p>\n

The Importance of Early Diagnosis<\/h2>\n

Early detection of cervical cancer greatly improves the chances for successful treatment. The best way to detect early-stage cervical cancer is to have regular screenings with the HPV and\/or Pap tests to identify changes that could become precancer or cervical cancer. The HPV test<\/a><\/strong> looks for the human Papillomavirus that can cause cell changes. The Pap test<\/a><\/strong>, also known as a Pap smear, looks for precancers. <\/p>\n

Both tests can be performed in a doctor\u2019s office or clinic. If you have a low income or no health insurance, you may be able to get free or low-cost screening tests through CDC\u2019s National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program. Find out if you qualify<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

When Should Women be Screened for Cervical Cancer<\/h2>\n

Paps are no longer done yearly for most women. The following schedule outlines the recommendations for Pap smear tests based on age:<\/p>\n