According to the CDC……
Any woman with a cervix is at risk for cervical cancer. It occurs most often in women over 30. Long lasting infection with certain types of human papilloma virus (HPV) is the main cause of cervical cancer. HPV is a common virus that is passed from one person to another during sex. At least half of sexually active people will have HPV at some point in their lives, but few will get cervical cancer.
Screening tests and HPV vaccines can help prevent cervical cancer. When cervical cancer is found early, it is highly treatable and associated with long survival and good quality of life. The HPV test and the Pap test can help prevent cervical cancer or find it early.
You should start getting Pap tests at age 21. If you are 30 years or older, talk to your doctor about testing options. If you are older than 65, your doctor may tell you that you no longer need to be screened if:
. You have had at least 3 Pap tests or 2 HPV tests in the past 10 years, and the test results were normal or negative.
. You have not had a cervical pre-cancer in the past.
You have had your cervix removed as part of a total hysterectomy for non-cancerous conditions, like fibroids.
Resolve to take charge of your health!
Yours In Health,
Patti Sciulli, CWI Board Member