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These days, many women are faced with risks of being infected with cervical cancer. This notwithstanding, cervical cancer is one of the most preventable of all cancer types. To minimize the risk of being exposed to and eventually attacked by cancer of the cervix, certain steps need be followed as outlined below:
1. Creating proper awareness on cervical cancer and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.
Women should endeavour to consult the appropriate doctor or even a gynecologist on issues and questions regarding cancer. The advice of an awareness group and cancer-related organizations should also be sought as much as possible.
2. Carrying out proper screening test every year for HPV infection
A Papanicolaou test or Pap smear is the current method of screening for the human papillomavirus. Women are enjoined to go for a pap smear test within three years after becoming sexually active for the first time and every one year thereafter. If the pap smear test is carried out on yearly basis, a woman is likely to have the cancer discovered early and treated better if detected.
3. Carrying out effective vaccination against HPV infections.
The cervical cancer vaccine is usually administered to teenage girls ages 11-17 to protect them from HPV. The vaccine is offered by Merck and Glaxo Smith Kline. Women, especially teenagers, need to consider having this vaccine. Also, if any questions should arise as regards this preventive method, it is advisable that a doctor be asked about the risks as well as benefits of taking this injection.
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