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How Much Do You Know About Cervical Cancer?

 How Much Do You Know About Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer often remains a background concern to many women, and only during an annual check-up brings it into focus. However, gaining a clear understanding of this common yet preventable disease is important. Empowering yourself with information can change outcomes.

What exactly is cervical cancer?

Visual representation of a woman's ovary and a cell, illustrating the progression from normal cells to cervical cancer.
Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Cervical cancer begins in the cells of the cervix which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Most cervical cancers start with changes in normal cells that gradually develop into cancer over time.

Here’s the thing, almost all cervical cancers are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection. With approximately 14,000 new cases diagnosed in the United States each year, it’s the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide.

Warning signs you shouldn’t ignore

Cervical cancer is sneaky. In its early stages, it typically causes no symptoms at all. That’s why regular screenings are so important, they can catch changes before symptoms even appear. When symptoms do show up, they might include:

  • Unusual vaginal bleeding (after sex, between periods, or after menopause)
  • Heavier than normal periods or bleeding that lasts longer than usual
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Unusual vaginal discharge that may contain blood
  • Pelvic pain

You should take note, that these symptoms can be caused by many conditions besides cancer. But if you’re experiencing any of them, it’s worth checking with your healthcare provider rather than brushing them aside.

Read More: 15 Women’s Health Myths That Can Be Harmful

Risk factors: What raises your chances?

Not every woman faces the same risk when it comes to cervical cancer. Several factors can influence your likelihood of developing this disease:

  • HPV infection: The single most significant risk factor, present in nearly all cervical cancer cases.
  • Smoking: Tobacco use doubles your cervical cancer risk compared to non-smokers. The harmful chemicals in tobacco can damage cervical cells and make them more vulnerable to HPV.
  • Weakened immune system: Conditions like HIV or medications that suppress immunity increase risk.
  • Birth control pills: Long-term use (5+ years) slightly increases risk, though this risk decreases after stopping.
  • Having many children: Women who’ve had three or more full-term pregnancies have a higher risk.
  • Young age at first full-term pregnancy: Women who were younger than 17 when they had their first full-term pregnancy are almost twice as likely to develop cervical cancer later in life.
  • Family history: If your mother or sister had cervical cancer, your risk may be higher.

Screening saves lives, here’s what you need to know.

The remarkable thing about cervical cancer? It’s one of the most preventable cancers thanks to screening tests that can catch problems early. The two main screening tests are:

Pap test (Pap smear): Looks for precancerous or cancerous cells on the cervix. During the test, your doctor collects cells from your cervix to examine under a microscope.

HPV test: Looks for the virus that can cause these cell changes.

Current guidelines from major medical organizations recommend:

  • Women ages 21-29 should have a Pap test every 3 years.
  • Women ages 30-65 should have both a Pap test and an HPV test (called “co-testing”) every 5 years, or a Pap test alone every 3 years.
  • Women over 65 who’ve had regular screenings with normal results generally don’t need screening.

Remember though, these are general guidelines. Your doctor might recommend a different schedule based on your personal health history.

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