Each year, more than 12,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with cervical cancer. However, cervical cancer can be prevented and cured if detected early.
Cervical cancer was once the leading cause of cancer death among women in the United States. Fortunately, improvements in screening and prevention have dramatically reduced these rates over the past two decades.
However, throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, cervical cancer screening rates have declined as many women were denied access to life-saving tests. Therefore, it is imperative that women who may be late for cervical cancer screening appointments see their doctor. Prevention of the disease revolves around her three-part strategy, which includes vaccination, screening, and individualized follow-up by the medical team for all abnormal results.
Human papillomavirus infection (HPV) is a highly prevalent virus, with up to 90% of people exposed to HPV during their lifetime. Most people with the virus show few symptoms, so it can spread without the individual being aware of it. Regular screening can help identify women with serious forms of HPV, or cellular changes in the cervix that require follow-up evaluation.
“The HPV vaccine provides long-term protection against the strains of HPV most associated with cervical cancer, but it does not protect against all types of HPV, nor against all forms of cervical cancer. It does not prevent ,” said Dr. Charles Hummel. His OB/GYN assistant his chief his services at Kaiser Permanente Southern California. “Therefore, screening is essential to an overall strategy to eradicate cervical cancer and prevent complications in women.”
The mainstay of screening includes cervical cytology (known as the “pap” test), targeted HPV DNA testing, and primary HPV screening. No matter what type of cervical cancer screening you have scheduled, it’s important to stick to your schedule.
Getting screened is especially important for black and brown women. According to the American Cancer Society, Hispanic women have the highest incidence of cervical cancer, followed by non-Hispanic black women. In addition, black women are more likely to die from the disease than women of other racial or ethnic groups.
“Because there is currently no treatment to eliminate HPV, which causes more than 99% of cervical cancers, getting vaccinated is very important. Prevention is the key to good health,” said Dr. Hummel. rice field. “Kaiser Permanente recommends that children begin their HPV vaccine series at age 9 and complete by age 13. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that young adults be vaccinated by age 26. If you are over 26, talk to your doctor about whether the HPV vaccine is still beneficial HPV is transmitted through sexual contact, so the best time to get the vaccine is when you are sexually active. It’s way before it becomes active.”
Although 12,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year, down 25 percent from 20 years ago, it is still a significant number and can be reduced, Dr. Hummel said.
“That’s why it’s so important to ensure that women get the care they need and follow recommendations for vaccination and screening. In doing so, the chances of getting cervical cancer are greatly reduced.”
Symptoms of cervical cancer may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, such as during menstruation, after intercourse, or after menopause. Other symptoms include pain in the lower abdomen, pelvis, and pain during sex. There is also the possibility of an abnormal vaginal discharge.
“Three simple things you can do to prevent cervical cancer are to get vaccinated, get screened, and contact your health care team if you have any concerns,” Dr. Hummel advised.
