By Dr. Annie Xu
Cervical cancer is the 4th most common cancer in women, and now one of the most preventable types of cancer.
Nearly all cases of cervical cancer are linked to 12 specific strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a generally asymptomatic sexually transmitted infection.
All vaccines are engineered to prevent infection; however, the HPV vaccine is the only vaccine that has been shown to prevent cancer due to the close link between HPV infection and cervical cancer risk in women as well as head and neck cancers in all adults. All people are potentially eligible for vaccination between 9 to 45 years of age.
Beyond HPV vaccination and lifestyle changes, your risk of cervical cancer decreases with regular screening through Pap smears.
For women ages 21 to 29 years, the United States Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends Pap smears once every 3 years, with more frequent testing if results are abnormal. For women ages 30 to 65 years, HPV testing alone or co-testing through Pap smear is recommended once every 5 years, with more frequent testing if results are abnormal. For women ages >65 years, you may be eligible to stop cervical cancer screening depending on your circumstances.
Not all cancer risks are the same. Lifestyle changes, vaccinations, and regular visits with your primary care doctor can detect early cancerous changes or even prevent cancer altogether. For more information, please discuss it with your primary care provider so they can better direct your care.
Dr. Annie Xu is a local primary care physician at Hot Springs Internal Medicine Clinic, specializing in chronic care management, women’s health, and general practice medicine. Her clinic is located at 301 Exchange St, Hot Springs. To schedule an appointment, call 501-621-4222.
