Effective Must-Know Tips on How to Prevent Cervical Cancer

According to the Department of Health, cervical cancer is said to be the leading cancer among women in the Philippines. In their study, it is estimated that there will be 7,277 new cases, as well as 3,807 deaths due to cervical cancer every year.

So, in relation to this year’s Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, we give you this article so that you will learn how to prevent cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer starts in the cells lining the cervix. The two main types of cervical cancer are Squamous cell carcinoma (cancers that develop from the cells in the exocervix) and adenocarcinoma (cancers that develop from gland cells).

Cervical cancer may begin with pre-malignant changes. As such, there are many possible approaches in preventing it from progressing. Discovering and treating pre-cancers before they turn out to be true cancers is the primary concern, followed by thwarting the formation of pre-cancers.

Finding Cervical Pre-Cancers

A well-demonstrated approach to averting cervical cancer is through testing (screening) to discover pre-malignancies before they can transform into an invasive disease or malignancy. Tests include the Pap test (or Pap spread) and the human papillomavirus (HPV) test.

Once a pre-cancer is discovered, it is then treated right away. This is done to stop cervical cancer from further developing or spreading to other parts of the body. Usually, women who do not undergo regular Pap tests are likely to be found with the most invasive cervical cancers.

As mentioned, these are the two tests that can help you prevent cervical cancers:

1. Pap test

The Pap test is used to obtain cells from the cervix (these cells can also be used for HPV testing) so they can be examined under a microscope to find the presence of cancerous or pre-cancerous cells.

The possibility of getting cervical cancer in the following years is low if your Pap test results are normal. If it is normal, depending on your doctor’s advice, you will not be needing another Pap test for the next three years.

You may consider undergoing an HPV test alongside the Pap test if you are aged 30 years or older. If the results of both tests are normal, depending on your doctor’s advice, you will not be needing another Pap test for the next five years. You may, however, see your OB Gyne for regular check-ups.

For women ages 21 to 65, getting a Pap test is recommended regardless of your age, your menstrual status, or whether or not you have been pregnant.

However, if you are over the age of 65 and have had normal Pap test results for the past few years, your OB Gyne may tell you that you do not need to have a Pap test anymore.

This is also the case if you had your cervix removed through surgery.

2. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) test

An HPV test also obtains cells from the cervix like the Pap test. This test is usually done if you are over 30 years old and if your Pap results are not normal. Moreover, your doctor will monitor for signs of cervical cancer if the result of your HPV test shows that you have HPV infection.

In addition to your knowledge about these two tests, you should have regular screening tests at the age of 21.

How to Prevent Pre-Cancers

To help lower your risk of having pre-cancers, here are some tips:

1. Get an HPV vaccine. The HPV vaccine can protect you from HPV types that usually cause cancers in the cervical, vaginal and vulvar areas. The ideal time to get the HPV vaccine is at the age before a girl becomes sexually active. It is commonly recommended for preteens who are 11 to 12 years old.

2. Stop Smoking. Smoking not only increases your risk for cervical cancer, but also for other cancers as well. If you need help in quitting this habit, visit your doctor.

3. Use a Condom. Using a condom can protect you better from cancers than using birth control pills or other forms of contraception. Be responsible for your own sexual health.

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-Medical Observer