Frequently Asked Questions About Cervical Cancer
Learn more about cervical cancer screenings and what you can do to prevent it.
Cervical cancer occurs when there are abnormal cell changes in the cervix that slowly develop over time. Early signs of cervical cancer, known as cervical dysplasia, can be easily found through screenings and treated. Left untreated, however, the abnormal cells can grow into cervical tumors.3
Cervical cancer used to be the leading cause of cancer death for women in the U.S. However, with increased Pap tests, the number of cases and deaths has drastically decreased.4
There are a few factors that may put a woman at greater risk for cervical cancer.5
- HPV infection
- Sexual history
- Smoking
- Unhealthy diet
- Family history
- Weakened immune system
- Long-term birth control use
Talk with your provider about your risk for cervical cancer and which screening guidelines are right for you, especially if you have never been screened for cervical cancer. Read more about cervical cancer risk factors and symptoms in our blog post, Cervical Cancer Risk Factors and Symptoms.
One of the most important things you can do to prevent cervical cancer is to receive regular screenings starting at age 21. Depending on your age and medical history, your provider may recommend a Pap test and an HPV test to screen for cervical cancer every three to five years.2 A Pap test takes a sample of tissue from your cervix that is examined under a microscope for abnormal cells that could indicate cancer or could eventually become cancer. An HPV test looks for the type of HPV virus that may cause cervical cancer. If abnormal cells are found in either of these tests, it can typically be treated, preventing it from turning into cervical cancer or another serious disease.6
You can get a cervical cancer screening at an obstetrician-gynecologist office. Some primary care providers' offices also offer cervical cancer screenings. To find a network provider that works for you, visit compassrosebenefits.com/UHC.
