With more than 5,000 women dying of cervical cancer alone each year, it is most important for women to protect themselves in order to maintain a healthy life. Cervical cancer is the third most common types of cancer in the world. However, women in the United States have routine well woman exams and pap smears that can detect cervical cancer before it progresses.

The development of cervical cancer is gradual and begins as a pre-cancerous condition called dysplasia. In this form it is 100 percent treatable, usually without the need for a hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus).

Dysplasia, depending on its severity, can resolve without treatment, particularly in young women. However, it often progresses to actual cancer and can spread; eventually it could spread to nearby tissues or other organs such as the bladder, intestines, liver or lungs.

Cervical Cancer Risk Factors

Cervical cancer risk factors may include the following.

• HPV infection. Fortunately, not all women who have had HPV infection or genital warts develop cervical cancer. Some scientists believe that other factors, such as smoking, may increase the risk of developing cervical cancer in those who have had HPV.

  Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a major risk factor for development of cervical cancer. Most cases of HPV in women are diagnosed through their annual routine Pap tests. An HPV test can be requested that will detect types of HPV that can cause cervical cancer. A regular Pap test should keep you informed. A Pap test detects any cell changes in the cervix, and an HPV test checks for the presence of HPV viruses and is performed during a pelvic exam and Pap test.

  There is no cure for HPV. Treatments are directly related to the conditions it causes (i.e., cervical cancer, genital warts). It is important to ask questions and discuss with your physician which treatments are right for you.

• Early age at first sexual intercourse.

• Multiple sexual partners and/or partners who have multiple partners.

• Women whose mothers took an estrogen drug during pregnancy called DES (diethylstilbestrol) are at risk of a rare form of cervical and vaginal cancer.

• Women who take birth control pills. It is thought that this is because such women are more sexually active, are less likely to use condoms and have more frequent Pap smears in order to be prescribed the birth control pill.

• Women whose immune systems are weakened such as those with HIV infection or women who have received organ transplants and are taking drugs to suppress the immune system may be at a higher risk.

• Infections with genital herpes or chronic chlamydia infections, both sexually transmitted diseases, may increase risk.

• Poor women may be at higher risk because they are uninsured or not able to afford regular pap smears.

Cervical Cancer Symptoms

Although many times there are no noticeable symptoms, occasionally, once the cancer has advanced there may be some symptoms of cervical cancer.

• Vaginal bleeding
• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Pelvic pain
• Pain during sexual intercourse

It is important to have your annual well woman exam and Pap smear in order to detect cervical cancer early.

Cervical Cancer Treatment

The three most common cervical cancer treatments include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. There is no one guaranteed method of treatment for cervical cancer, so you should discuss your options with your doctor.

Most importantly, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that sexually active women and women over the age of 21 have their annual pap tests and gynecologic exams. It always is a good idea to discuss this with your healthcare provider who can perform the necessary tests and answer any questions.

Healthcare coordinators are available by calling toll-free 1.877.UT.CARES (1.877.882.2737).

For more information, visit the American Cancer Society or National Cancer Institute.