CuraScript SD - Cervical Cancer Screening Month

Cervical Cancer Screening Month

Posted Thursday, January 1, 2015

IMPORTANCE OF PAP TESTING

Cervical Cancer is the 2nd Most Common Cancer for Women

DID YOU KNOW? Cervical Cancer can take between 10-20 years to develop

In the United States there are 12,000 new cases of cervical cancer each year. While the prevalence of cervical cancer has dropped greatly in the last 40 years, there are, on average 4,000 deaths from cervical cancer each year. Cervical cancer is considered to be a mid-life cancer, more than half of those diagnosed are between 35 and 55 years old, it is rare for anyone under 20 to develop cervical cancer. Women should begin regular screening starting when they reach 21. Below are some of the signs and risk factors of cervical cancer.

Risks and Signs of Cervical Cancer

Risks

• Smoking

• Human Papilloma Virus: those with HPV-16 or HPV-18 are more likely to develop cervical cancer.

• Pregnancy before the age of 17: can double the risk when compared to those who wait until 25.

• Long term use of IUD or oral birth control: the American Cancer Society suggests a risk assessment before starting any birth control option.

Signs

• Bleeding between periods or after menopause

• Bleeding after douching or a pelvic exam

• Bleeding after intercourse

• Pain while urinating or pain not related to the menstrual cycle

It is important to get screened regularly to ensure cervical health. Speak with your patients about scheduling their PAP screening today!