Cervical Cancer is detected through PAP test. In a PAP test, the cells of the cervix are scraped which are then examined in the laboratory for abnormal growth of cells. If the PAP test shows abnormalities doctors recommend a colposcopy to detect whether the abnormal cells are pre-cancerous, cancerous, or noncancerous. Subsequently, X-Rays and PET Scans are may be conducted to diagnose the stage of cancer.
Which of these is a risk factor for Cervical Cancer?
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The most important risk factor for Cervical Cancer is HPV Virus, however, there are other secondary factors that have been linked to higher risk of developing the disease like overweight, multiple pregnancies, smoking, having multiple sexual partners, and consumption of birth control pills. Also, women with family history of cervical cancer need to be careful and are advised to get screened every three years.
Cervical Cancer is most common in:
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Even though cervical cancer can affect women of any age it is most common in women over 30 years of age and those in post-menopausal stage. This could be attributed to the fact that these diseases tend to be detected at a later stage and also the fact that older women do not get screened that often.
Women need to get screened with PAP test every year to check for Cervical Cancer?
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Women between 21 and 29 years of age should get screened with a PAP Test every 3 years. Women aged 30 to 65 years are advised to get screened with HPV and PAP Test every 5 years or just a PAP test every 3 years.
Which of these is a possible sign of Cervical Cancer?
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Pain during sex and bleeding after the intercourse is a possible sign of Cervical Cancer. However, it is important to note that Cervical Cancer usually does not show any symptoms during a pre-cancer stage or early stages. Symptoms like abnormal vaginal bleeding, painful intercourse etc may not be present until the Cancer becomes invasive. Therefore it is important to get screened regularly.