Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
By Dr. Amy Fox
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness month. Cervical cancer is a risk for all women, with about 13,000 new cases reported in the United States each year. While cervical cancer usually occurs in women over 30, prevention can begin as early as age 9 the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.
Almost all cervical cancers are caused by HPV. A virus that can affect both women and men, there are many different types of HPV, with some increasing cancer risk more than others. HPV is common, with most people getting it at some point in their lives, especially if they are sexually active since HPV is passed through skin-to-skin contact. However, most people who are infected with HPV do not develop cancer.
The HPV vaccine can protect against the types of HPV most often linked to cancer, including cervical cancer. It is recommended that both girls and boys receive the vaccine at age 11 or 12, but it can be given as early as 9. If the vaccine is given before age 15, it will require two doses about 6 to 12 months apart. For those between 15 and 26, three vaccine doses are typically recommended. Some adults who have not been vaccinated and are between 27 and 45 years of age may get the HPV vaccine after speaking with their doctor. It is important to note that HPV vaccination is for the prevention of new HPV infections; it does not help treat existing conditions. The older an individual becomes, the more likely they are to be exposed to HPV, which is why it is recommended that vaccination begin early.
Beginning at age 21, whether or not they have been vaccinated, women should begin regular screenings. Regular screenings can help prevent and detect cervical cancer in its early stages. The screening tests can take place in a doctor’s office. One form of screening is a Pap test, also known as a Pap smear.
A Pap test looks for cell abnormalities on the cervix that may become cervical cancer if not properly treated. If your Pap test results return normal, you can usually wait three years for your next screening. If your result is abnormal or unclear, this is not an indication of cancer, but your doctor will order more testing to determine the cause of the test results.
Another screening test is an HPV test, which searches for HPV. An HPV infection usually has no symptoms making screenings vital because a long-lasting infection can slowly change the cervical cells and lead to cervical cancer. If your test returns negative, you can typically wait five years to be tested again. If you have a positive HPV test, you are at higher risk than the average population and should discuss the next steps with your physician.
When caught in the early stages, cervical cancer is highly treatable. Your cancer team will most likely be led by a gynecologic oncologist who will work with you to develop a treatment plan based on your stage of cancer, type of cervical cancer, age, and overall health. Speak with your doctor about your different treatment options, the risks and benefits of each, any fertility concerns you may have, and who will be part of your cancer team. Cervical cancer can be treated in several ways, with most treatment plans including a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
One in every five deaths in the United States is due to cancer. Staying proactive, advocating for your health, and getting regular wellness checks can go a long way to preventing and detecting cervical cancer. Even if you feel healthy, schedule an annual appointment with your doctor. If you are worried about cost or uninsured, check with your local or state health departments about low-cost or free screening options.
Amy Fox is a physician at Advocate Radiation Oncology.
Advocate Radiation Oncology’s board-certified oncologists provide expert, customized patient care. With locations across Southwest Florida, patients have access to state-of-the-art cancer-fighting machines. Our individualized cancer treatment plans are guided by the most up-to-date data, appropriate
evidence-based care, and the latest technologies available.
Advocate Radiation Oncology
Cape Coral
909 Del Prado Blvd. S
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 217-8070
Bonita Springs
25243 Elementary Way
Bonita Springs, FL 34135
(239) 317-2772
Fort Myers
15681 New Hampshire Ct.
Fort Myers, FL 33908
(239) 437-1977
Port Charlotte
3080 Harbor Blvd.
Port Charlotte, FL 33952
(941) 883-2199
Naples
1775 Davis Blvd.
Naples, FL 34102
(239) 372-2838
