Cervical cancer screening and prevention
Vaccination and regular screenings protect against cervical cancer and can identify issues early. Learn more about the screenings you need.
If you have a cervix, you could be at risk for cervical cancer. Unfortunately, nearly 14,000 new cervical cancer diagnoses are expected this year alone, and the disease will claim the lives of more than 4,000 women, according to the American Cancer Society.
Cervical cancer used to be one of the most common causes of cancer death for women in the United States. But thanks to vaccination and routine screenings, we’ve cut that number by more than half since the 1970s, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
Cervical cancer is one of the easiest gynecological cancers to prevent and is highly curable if found and treated in its earliest stages, and even precancerous stages. At HCA Florida Healthcare, we can help you find a doctor and learn which preventative screenings are right for you.
There are a number of important to-dos for girls, beginning as early as 9 years old, when it comes to safeguarding their health. Here’s how:
Get the HPV vaccine
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the leading cause of cervical cancer, and the virus is widespread. In fact, at least half of all sexually active people will get HPV at some point, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Most of the time, the immune system responds and kills the infection. In some cases, however, the infection lingers and can lead to meningitis, whooping cough and HPV-related cancers, such as cervical cancer.
The HPV vaccine is a safe and effective way to prevent cervical cancer. However, since the vaccine prevents new HPV infections but doesn’t treat an existing condition, it works best if given before someone becomes sexually active and exposed to HPV. The vaccine is administered in two or three doses, depending on age and can be given beginning at 9 years old if needed.
Because HPV can cause multiple conditions, including several types of cancer, both boys and girls can benefit from the HPV vaccine both personally and in decreasing transmission rates for others.
CDC vaccination recommendations:
- At 11 or 12 years old: Two rounds of the vaccine as part of the routine vaccination schedule, six to 12 months apart.
- At 15 years old: A series of three vaccines in six-month intervals.
- Up through 26 years old: For those who weren’t previously vaccinated, a series of three vaccines in six month intervals.
- At 27 through 45 years old: Recommend patient-physician discussion on individualized benefits of receiving this vaccine for this age group.
Schedule regular screening tests and pelvic exams
An HPV test, Pap test and pelvic exam can be done separately or at the same time, depending on your preference and your doctor’s recommendation — but all are crucial to ensuring abnormal cells are detected early when they’re easiest to treat.
Recommended cervical cancer screenings usually include:
- Pap test: During a Pap test (sometimes called a Pap smear), your doctor will collect cell samples from several areas of your cervix and send them to a lab for testing. The results can tell us if there is abnormal cell growth that could lead to cervical cancer — and that’s powerful information since the earlier you begin treatment, the better your chances of a successful, cancer-free outcome. A Pap test may be done during a pelvic exam, but that doesn’t always happen at every examination or automatically without your request. Talk to your doctor about whether a Pap test is right for you or your loved one.
- Pelvic exam: A pelvic exam should be part of your regular healthcare routine. During a pelvic exam, your doctor will check the health of your reproductive organs and look for issues that could indicate cancer or other reproductive conditions.
- HPV test: An HPV test uses the same process as a Pap test to collect cell samples from areas in your cervix. Knowing whether you have HPV can help your doctor predict the potential for cervical cancer and provide you with the best possible care.
Specific guidelines for cervical cancer screening vary according to the recommending organization, such as the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) or the American Cancer Society. But, in general, screenings are recommended for women aged 21 through 65. Your doctor will help you determine the best screening schedule based on your age, health and family history. Testing is typically done every three to five years if no other issues arise to move up the schedule.
Most women older than 65 don’t need regular cervical cancer screening if they have a history of normal Pap test results.
Cervical cancer screening and vaccination against HPV don’t just help prevent cancer, they also provide the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re taking steps to protect your health. Talk to your doctor to make sure you’re getting the screenings and other care you need.