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Cervical cancer is a disease in which cancer cells form in the cervix. While cervical cancer was once a leading cause of cancer death for women, the number of deaths has decreased dramatically due to prevention and early detection.
Statistics
- During 2010, 12,200 new cases of cervical cancer are expected to be diagnosed in the United States.
- In 2010, 4,210 women are expected to die from cervical cancer in the United States.
- One in 147 women will be diagnosed with cervical cancer during her lifetime.
- An estimated 1,219 Texas women are expected to be diagnosed with the disease in 2010.
- When detected early before the cancer spreads, women have a 92 percent survival rate after five years.
Risk Factors
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV): A common sexually transmitted infection, HPV is the main cause of cervical cancer. However, not all women with HPV infection will develop cancer. Women who have had many sexual partners or began having intercourse at a young age face an increased risk for HPV infection.
- Medical History: Women with HIV and other immunosuppressant diseases have a higher-than-average risk of developing cervical cancer.
- Smoking: Female smokers double their risk of cervical cancer, compared to nonsmokers.
Symptoms and Signs
The early changes related to cervical cancer may not come with warning signs; however, women may notice symptoms and pain as the disease worsens. If any of the following symptoms or signs is present, women are encouraged to consult their physician for proper testing:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Painful intercourse
- Post-menopausal bleeding
- Pain in the pelvic area
Tips for Prevention
The most effective screening tool for cervical cancer is a Pap test. Women should have a Pap test every year beginning at age 21 or no later than three years after having sexual intercourse, whichever comes first, regardless of whether they have received the HPV vaccine. Women in their 30s with three consecutive normal Pap tests may limit screenings to every two or three years. Physicians may recommend that women have more frequent screening if certain risk factors are present.
Girls and young women may also receive vaccinations to prevent the types of HPV infections that cause cancer. Two vaccines have been approved for use in females age 9-26 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The vaccines may reduce a woman’s risk of cervical cancer, but it is important to remember that HPV vaccines cannot eliminate an existing infection.
Treatment Options
Women should consult with a gynecologic oncologist to determine their specific treatment needs. There are several treatment options for cervical cancer, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery, depending on the stage of the disease. Each method may be used alone, or in combination with other treatments.
Source: American Cancer Society, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Cancer Institute, and Texas Cancer Institute
Updated 08/23/10