HEALTH TALK

What every woman should know about cervical cancer

The cervix of the uterus is the second most common site of cancers affecting the reproductive system of women. As compared with all cancers affecting women, it rates second, after breast cancer.

Cervical cancer is a silent disease that rarely show symptoms, That is why Pap tests are recommended in order to detect abnormal cervical and vaginal cell changes before they turn into cancer. If the problem is caught before it spreads beyond the cervix, treatment is safe and usually effective.

What is pap smear test?

The Pap smear test is a quick and simple method of detecting abnormal cell changes in the cervix. The technique was developed in 1928 by Dr. George Papanicolauo. A Pap smear test is a simple procedure in which an instrument called a speculum is inserted into the vagina in order for the health provider to see into the cervix. Cells are then taken from the cervix and smeared onto a slide and set directly to a lab to be studied under a microscope. It takes very little time, but it may also save your life.

Symptoms of cervical cancer

Symptoms may include abnormal bleeding or spotting and abnormal vaginal discharge.
However, the earliest signs of cervical cancer tend to appear between the ages of 25 and 45.
At this early, preinvasive stage, the cancer is confined to its original site. If the cancer is not treated at this stage, the disease spreads and becomes a typical invasive cancer within five to ten years. Signs of bleeding and ulceration usually do not appear until this has occurred. However, because of the relatively slow growth of cervical cancer in the early stage, the disease usually can be detected by a Pap smear test before it becomes invasive.

Who’s at risk?

Almost all sexually active women have a slight chance of developing cervical problems. But some factors increase the risk. Intercourse at an early age, smoking, and comprised immune system are some factors. Often, abnormal Pap test results are linked to Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). This virus causes and STD commonly called genital warts or condyloma, which may change the way cells grow. All of these factors may increase a woman’s risk by making abnormal cell changes.

Lower Your Risk

Help yourself stay active and healthy by following up with your health care provider. Tour healthcare provider may want you to be tested more often. So give yourself the best chance for continued health by having Pap tests for the rest of your life, as recommended by your health provider. In addition, help keep yourself healthy by limiting your number of sexual partners. If you’re just starting a new relationship, always use condoms. Remember, regular and annual Pap smear tests are your best protection against cervical cancer. As the Centers Disease Control (CDC) would say, early detection is your best protection.

For more information, please visit or call the CNMI Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program at 234-1184, Department of Public Health, Public Health Division.