Gynecologic cancer is any of the five cancer types that can affect a woman’s reproductive system. Cervical cancer is found in the lower, narrower end of the uterus, which connects to the vagina. Of all the gynecologic cancer types, cervical cancer is the easiest to prevent and has the greatest rate of survival if it is caught and treated early by your gynecologist.
Who Is at Risk?
All women are at risk for developing cervical cancer, especially those who have a history of gynecologic cancers in their family. However, this specific disease is most often found in women who are older than 30.
While there is no one thing that may cause this cancer, research has discovered the human papillomavirus as the main culprit in most cases. Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is common in both men and women. It can be transmitted from one partner to another during sex. Research suggests that approximately half of all sexually active adults will contract HPV at some point during their lives. However, it leads to a relatively small number of cancer cases.
Tests to Find Cervical Cancer
To prevent and detect cervical cancer, you should visit your gynecologist regularly. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists suggests a yearly wellness exam including a Pap smear for women 21 and older. The Pap smear takes a sample of cervical cells and checks them for precancerous cells. A normal Pap smear and negative HPV test will indicate that you are cancer free.
Risk Factors and Prevention
Those who smoke and have multiple sex partners without protection raise their risks of getting cervical cancer. Other risk factors include having HIV or other illnesses that affect the body’s healing processes, using birth control for longer than five years, and having more than three children.
Have regular check-ups with your gynecologist to ensure that your cervix is healthy. You should also use condoms during sex to protect yourself and your partner from potentially passing HPV to one another. There is also an immunization against HPV that girls can get starting at age 11.