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Prevention of Cervical Cancer: Early detection of cervical problems is the best way to prevent cervical cancer. Routine, annual pelvic examinations and Pap tests can detect precancerous conditions that often can be treated before cancer develops. Invasive cancer that does occur would likely be found at an earlier stage. Pelvic examinations and Pap tests are the methods used to determine if there are cervical problems. Women who are or have been sexually active, or are age 18 or older, should have regular checkups, including a pelvic exam and Pap test. A pelvic exam and Pap test allow the physician to detect abnormal changes in the cervix. If an infection is present, it is treated and the Pap test is repeated at a later time. If the exam or Pap test suggests something other than an infection, a repeated Pap test and other tests are performed to determine the problem. Women who have had a hysterectomy (surgery to remove the uterus, including the cervix) should ask their physician's advice about having pelvic exams and Pap tests.
Women who are or have been sexually active, or have reached age 18, should have Pap tests and physical (and pelvic) examinations regularly. Generally, there is no upper age at which Pap tests cease to be effective. Older women should continue to have regular physical examinations, including pelvic exams and Pap tests. Women who have had a hysterectomy should consult their physicians about whether or not to continue having regular Pap tests. The mortality rates for cervical cancer have declined sharply as Pap screenings have become more commonly performed. About 15,000 cases of invasive cervical cancer will be diagnosed in the US during 2000. What are other risk factors for cervical cancer?
What are the symptoms of cervical cancer? *
* Consult a physician for diagnosis if any of these symptoms of cervical cancer are experienced.
Webmaster: Emily Shaw of Illustrating Medicine
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