The American Cancer Society estimates there will be about 13,240 new cases of invasive cervical cancer diagnosed this year. 

At one time, cervical cancer was among the most common causes of cancer death for American women. But with the increased use of the Pap test, the cervical cancer death rate has declined significantly. When it comes to cervical cancer, prevention, early detection and treatment is key. That’s why it’s important for women to educate themselves and their loved ones about cervical health. 

Here are three things every woman should know about cervical cancer. 

1. Cervical cancer is often caused by HPV.
Cervical changes that may indicate cancer are caused by a common virus called the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is spread through skin-to-skin or sexual contact. While a sexually-active woman is at risk for getting HPV at some point in her lifetime, very few infections lead to cervical cancer. In many cases an infection caused by HPV doesn’t last long because the body is able to fight it. 

2. Routine testing is one of the best ways to detect cervical cancer.  
Getting a routine Pap test (also called a Pap smear) can help detect abnormal cell changes that may turn into cervical cancer. A Pap test can also detect concerning precancerous cells on the cervix. Healthcare officials previously recommended yearly Pap tests, but annual testing is no longer considered necessary because changes in cervical cells that lead to cancer occur over a 10- to 20-year period, according to the American Cancer Society. Testing for HPV is often done in conjunction with Pap testing. Talk to your doctor to find out how often you should get a Pap test. 

3. Cervical cancer is preventable. 
Vaccines have been available since 2012 that can help protect you from HPV infection and HPV-related cancers, including cervical cancer. The most effective is called Gardasil-9, which protects against nine strains of HPV. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the HPV vaccine for all children between the ages 11 to 12 years old. The vaccine can be given to children as young as 9 years old or adults as old as 26 years old. The vaccine is most effective before any sexual activity has taken place but is still advised if sexual activity has begun or if an abnormal Pap test has occurred. 

If you have questions about cervical cancer prevention or screening, talk with your healthcare provider. If you need a gynecologist, you can find one near you by calling Tanner’s 24-hour physician referral line at 770-214-CARE (2273) or by using Tanner’s Find a Provider search feature.