Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in females followed closely by cervical cancer. Cervical cancer affects the entrance to the womb, and although it is prevalent in Africa there are almost 10,000 cases reported in the US every year.

 

The risks associated with contracting cervical cancer can be reduced considerably by following a few simple precautions although the disease is not entirely preventable.

 

Reduction of Risk of Cervical Cancer

 

  1. Pap Smear Test. This form of test should preferably be carried out annually .It can identify any changes taking place in the cervix prior to any malignancy developing. The test is not complicated and can be carried out by your doctor or local health clinic.

 

  1. Sexual Partners. There is a strong connection between the number of sexual partners you have and the risk of suffering cervical cancer. The greater the number of partners, the greater the risk of becoming infected by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). There are over 100 varieties of this virus, 30 of which are known to cause cancer.

 

  1. Colposcopy Check. If your Pap smear test result shows any abnormality do not hesitate, but follow through by having a colposcopy check up. This entails a closer examination of the cervix when a solution is applied which causes any abnormal cells to become white and readily observable.

 

  1. Vaccine. Check with your doctor as to whether you are eligible for the HPV vaccine Gardasil. If you are younger than 27 years there should be little problem. The vaccine offers protection against the HPV which can be transmitted by skin to skin sexual contact. The use of the Gardasil vaccine provides protection against two of the types of HPV which lead to cervical cancer and can be safely used in females ranging from 9 – 26 years of age.

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