As one of the easiest cancers to prevent, it’s shocking that 13,000 new cases of cervical cancer will be diagnosed this year.  Although a routine gynecological visit usually includes the screening test to detect cervical cancer, the pap test, some women don’t make their yearly screening a priority.  January is National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, so now is the best time for women to make sure they’ve scheduled their annual visit to the ob/gyn. 

Since the development of the pap test over 40 years ago, the number of deaths from cervical cancer has dropped tremendously.  In a pap test, cells are taken from the cervix, and examined for any abnormalities.  The test includes screening for pre-cancerous cells known as cervical intra-epithelial neoplasia or CIN.  Cancer of the cervix grows slowly, therefore, pre-cancerous cells can often be seen using the pap test before it turns into full-blown cancer.  “The ability to catch it before it’s actually cancer has saved thousands of lives,” said Ben Darby, MD, obstetrician/gynecologist with OBG-1.  The survival rate is almost 100% if detected early.

Risk factors for cervical cancer include having sex at an early age and having multiple sex partners.  Although these facts are true, it is important to note that many women who have had only one sexual partner can develop the pre-cancerous cells and/or cervical cancer.  “If the immune system is weakened, this may also allow pre-cancerous cells to develop into a cancer,” said Dr. Darby.  “The immune system can be weakened by a variety of things, including a poor diet, smoking, or just having an infection.”

When pre-cancerous cells are found, there is a possibility that they may go back to normal on their own, especially if the level of such cells is low.  A follow-up pap test is usually recommended.  If cancerous cells are found, various treatment options are available, depending on the stage. Biopsies, hysterectomy and radiation are possible choices, but every decision should be discussed with your doctor.

The most common symptom of cervical cancer is abnormal bleeding between periods or after intercourse.  For women who have gone through menopause and no longer have monthly periods, they may have new bleeding.

Pap tests are recommended for women beginning at age 18 or at the start of sexual activity.  They should be continued yearly for a few years.  If a normal test is found after regular screening for several years, some doctors recommend their patients have a pap test every three years. Menopausal and post-menopausal women are not off the hook.  They should continue to have a routine pap test, according to Dr. Darby.

“The most important thing is for women to continue their yearly gynecological exam,” urged Dr. Darby.  “The screening for cervical cancer is easily done with little discomfort and the survival rate is very high when detected early. It’s easy to postpone or cancel the appointment, but it is extremely important for women to take time for their health and keep their appointment.”

For more information on cervical cancer prevention and treatment, call OBG-1 at 1-866-312-OBG1 or log onto www.obg-1.com.