Cervical Cancers on the Decline

Several advancements in recent years are helping more women beat cervical, uterine, ovarian, and other gynecologic cancers, which occur in the reproductive organs.

Each year in the United States, 13,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer. Once one of the most common causes of cancer deaths among women, cervical cancer’s death rate has declined by more than 50 percent over the past several decades. Standard PAP test screenings and widespread acceptance of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine have drastically reduced the occurrence of cervical cancers, according to the American Cancer Society.

Cervical cancer starts when cells that line the cervix – the lower part of the uterus (womb) – begin to grow out of control. While all women are at risk, cervical cancer is diagnosed most frequently in women between the ages of 35 and 44. It rarely develops in women younger than 20.

Almost all cervical cancers are caused by HPV, a group of more than 150 viruses which can weaken the immune system and put women at high risk for infection. Other factors can increase your risk, including:
• Having first sexual intercourse at an early age
• Having many sexual partners
• Giving birth to three or more children
• Smoking cigarettes (this produces chemicals that can damage cervical cells)
• Using oral contraceptives long-term

A Silent Cancer
Early-stage cervical cancer does not usually produce symptoms. As it progresses and spreads, common symptoms may include:
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Vaginal bleeding after sexual intercourse
• Persistent pelvic or low back pain

Since other conditions can cause these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.

Screenings are the best prevention
Because it can take years to develop, as it stays hidden, it is important to begin cervical cancer screening at age 21. A Pap smear can detect abnormal changes, which tend to develop gradually in cervical cells. The HPV test looks for high-risk types of HPV infection that are more likely to cause pre-cancers and cancer of the cervix. The two tests can be done alone or at the same time during a pelvic exam.

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For more information, visit FLCancer.com