30 Dec CERVICAL HEALTH AWARENESS

Posted at 16:54h in Cancer by

Cervical cancer is caused by the human papillomavirus, the most common sexually transmitted disease in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 13,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year. Northeastern Oklahoma Cancer Institute has outlined some ways to lower your risk of cervical cancer. 

Get Vaccinated.

The FDA has approved two vaccines to help prevent HPV infection. The CDC recommends the vaccine for girls from 11 to 12. There is debate over whether or not the vaccine is beneficial for women over 18. Talk to your doctor at your next annual women’s visit. 

Go for routine Pap tests.

Pap tests are the best way to check for abnormalities in the cervical tissue. By receiving routine pap tests your doctor is able to monitor your cervical health. Many women who are diagnosed with cervical cancer have not had a pap test in the past five years. 

Follow up on abnormal pap tests.

If a pap test is abnormal, your doctor will perform other tests to determine if there is a problem. 

Quit Smoking.

Studies show that smoking cigarettes doubles your risk of developing cervical cancer. 

If you have any additional questions about cervical cancer diagnosis, types, stages, or treatment options, please contact the team at Northeastern Oklahoma Cancer Institute and we’d be happy to help in any way we can. We look forward to assisting you and your loved ones.