Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer occurs when abnormal cells on the cervix multiply and grow out of control. While cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers found in women, affecting nearly 12,000 each year, it is preventable. In fact, educating yourself on cervical cancer prevention methods can help decrease your risk for developing this disease by nearly 100%.
Cervical Cancer Risk Factors
Physicians cannot explain why one woman develops cervical cancer and another does not; however, there are several risk factors that make a woman more susceptible to the disease. The biggest risk factor for developing cervical cancer is the presence of the human papilloma virus (HPV). HPV is a group of viruses that can infect the cervix. Passed through sexual conduct, HPV will infect most adults during their lifetime. Though most do not experience health problems from HPV, the virus can cause cell changes, genital warts and cancer.
Besides HPV, there are a variety of other cervical cancer risk factors, including:
- Lack of regular pap smear tests
- Weakened immune system
- Age (over 40)
- Having many sexual partners
- Having a sexual partner who has had many sexual partners
- Smoking
- Using birth control pills for more than 5 years in women with an HPV infection
- Having many children
Doctors advise women to get routine pap smear tests to reduce their risk of developing cervical cancer. A simple test to examine cervical cells, a pap smear can detect cervical cancer or abnormal cells that may lead to cancer. Doctors recommend that women should receive pap tests three years after becoming sexual activity or when they turn 21, whichever comes first. After their first pap smear, women should get these tests once every three years. Women who have an increased risk of developing cervical cancer should speak with their doctor about how often this test should be performed.
Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
Precancerous cell chances usually do not cause symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, women may experience cervical cancer symptoms such as:
- Bleeding between periods
- Bleeding after sex
- Heavier, longer menstrual periods
- Bleeding after menopause
- Pelvic pain
- Pain during sex
- Increased vaginal discharge
While these symptoms may be attributed to other health problems, women should see their doctor if they are experiencing any of the above symptoms. If cervical cancer is found, the woman may undergo surgery, radiation or chemotherapy, depending on her wishes and the stage of the cancer.
Support for Cervical Cancer Patients
Learning that you have cervical cancer or are at risk for developing the disease may be a devastating experience. However, there are resources to help. Explore the links below to locate cervical cancer clinical trials, find support and learn about early detection.
