According to the American Cancer Society, cervical cancer is the most common cancer in women under the age of 50, and rarely occurs in women under the age of 20. Each year, an estimated 12,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer, and of those diagnosed, one-third will die as a result.Cervical cancer is a highly preventable and treatable cancer, thanks to improved screening and vaccination. A cervical cancer screening is usually part of a woman’s annual health exam.
What is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that develops in a woman’s cervix (the entrance of the womb from the vagina). Studies have shown that risk factors for cervical cancer include family history of the
disease, smoking, a weakened immune system and long-term mental stress.
What are the Symptoms of Cervical Cancer?
Symptoms are not always obvious in the early stages. Many health care professionals refer to is as the “silent killer.” Possible symptoms include abnormal bleeding after sexual intercourse, during menopause or between periods; heavy or prolonged periods; and/or unusual discharge. Symptoms may not be present until the cancer reaches an advanced stage.
Why is It Important to Get Screened?
Cervical cancer screening is usually part of a woman’s annual health check up. There are two types of tests: the Pap test and the HPV test. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends Pap testing every 3 years. The fact that cervical cancer rarely presents symptoms in early stages highlights the importance of regular screening for the disease. If these abnormal cells are found and treated early, cervical cancer can be stopped from developing. If caught at its earliest stage, there is a higher chance
of survival.
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