Facts about Cervical Cancer

Heidi J. Purcell, MD Obstetrics/Gynecology HHSC

Kauai Region: The Clinic at Waimea

Let’s start with good news: cervical cancer is preventable.

We know that Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) infections can cause cervical cancer. As a result, screening guidelines have changed dramatically in the past decade to include HPV testing as an important factor in predicting risk.

HPV vaccination status is not incorporated into current personalized guidelines, but we recommend vaccination at age 11 or 12. (It is FDA-approved up to age 45.)

Multiple options for screening regimens exist, but they are all based on performing pap smears (looking directly at the cells of the cervix), HPV testing, or a combination of the two, done during a pelvic exam.

The risk for developing cervical cancer varies based on previous screening results and the age of the patient. Younger people are better at clearing HPV infections, and often abnormal cells can resolve spontaneously.

We currently recommend starting cervical cancer screening at age 21. The frequency of subsequent testing depends on how normal the cells look, and the presence or absence of high-risk HPV infections.

Smoking and underlying medical conditions—like HIV and autoimmune diseases— can modify your risk, as can a history of hysterectomy.

With reassuring results, pap smears can be spaced out every three to five years, and in many cases can be stopped after age 65.

Prioritize your health! Get preventative screenings, including an annual gynecological exam, which can predict your risk for developing cervical cancer.

Because no one screening path is right for everyone, it is best to discuss your personal situation with your gynecologist. Using shared medical decision-making with your physician at your annual exam you can come up with your personalized screening strategy to prevent cervical cancer.