Cancer is the second most common cause of death in the United States, exceeded only by heart disease. It accounts for nearly one of every four deaths.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has identified some cancers where proactive screening can reduce the associated death rate, and others where the risks of screening can outweigh the potential benefits.
“Updated guidelines for cervical and ovarian cancers have been issued during the past few years,” said John Devine, M.D., FACOG, a board-certified gynecologist and fellowship-
trained urogynecologist treating patients at Gulf Coast Medical Group in Venice, Englewood and Sarasota. “It’s important to discuss with your doctor your risk factors and the benefits of cancer screening.”
Cervical cancer is one of the great success stories in cancer prevention. Since the introduction of cervical cancer screenings via Pap testing in the 1950s, the incidence of what was once the number one cancer in women has plummeted.
Current USPSTF screening guidelines for cervical cancer are:
• Women between the ages of 21 and 29 should have a Pap test at least every three years. HPV (Human Papillomavirus – the virus known to cause cervical cancer) testing should be done only if needed after an abnormal Pap test.
• Women between the ages of 30 and 65 should have both a Pap test and an HPV test at least every five years.
• Women over 65 who have had regular screenings with normal results should not be screened for cervical cancer.
Ovarian cancer screening guidelines have also been revised. Due to a lack of reliable detection tools for early stages of this cancer, and the potential for false positives leading to unnecessary surgeries, the task force currently does not recommend routine screenings for ovarian cancer.
If you have symptoms or increased risk factors for ovarian cancer, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of screening. Risks and symptoms may include:
• Immediate family history of ovarian cancer
• Pelvic or abdominal pain or bloating
• Significant or sudden changes in menstrual patterns
• Difficulty urinating; change in urination urgency or frequency
• Blood in urine
If you and your doctor agree that your symptoms or risks justify a screening, there are also options for which method is best. For ovarian cancer, an ultrasound may be conducted. If abnormalities are found, further testing will be done.
“Keep in mind that these are general guidelines,” said Dr. Devine, who treats women with a wide variety of health and wellness issues including cervical and ovarian cancer screenings, contraceptive care, menopause management and complex pelvic reconstruction.
“Women who are showing symptoms, or who are at increased risk for these cancers, may need to screen differently or more often. For instance, African American and Hispanic women have a higher incidence of cervical cancer,” he said.
For more information about the right screening path for you or your loved ones, schedule an appointment with a physician who can help you evaluate and weigh your options. If you need to find a physician, visit GulfCoastMedicalGroup.net or call 941-207-5330.