Regular Pap Smears Should Be Your Priority To Reduce Your Risk Of Cervical Cancer
September is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month
September is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month which aims to raise awareness about cervical cancer and, importantly, its prevention. Cervical cancer is the 2nd most common cancer among South African women aged 15 to 44. Statistics South Africa estimates that over 16 million women over the age of 15 are at risk of cervical cancer in South Africa alone.
Cervical cancer is preventable and treatable
Despite the existence of screening tests able to detect problems well before the disease becomes fatal, about eight South African women die from cervical cancer every day. The World Health Organisation (WHO) predicts that this figure could rise to 12 by 2025.
Screening Tests
Screening tests are the best way to detect cervical cancer at an early stage when successful treatment is likely. Screening can also prevent most cervical cancers by identifying abnormal cell changes before they turn into cancer. When detected in its earliest stages, cervical cancer is considered one of the most treatable cancer types.
The Link To HPV
HPV stands for Human Papillomavirus. It’s the most common sexually transmitted infection. Most people with HPV don’t develop any symptoms but can still infect others through sexual and skin-to-skin contact. HPV is usually associated with causing genital warts. According to the National Cervical Cancer Coalition, HPV causes 99% of cervical cancers. The HPV vaccination is recommended for girls, and boys, between the ages of 9 and 26.
Pap Smear Tests Reduce Risk
Getting regular Pap tests to check for precancerous cells is thought to be one of the most important and effective means of prevention. Having regular Pap smears can detect abnormal cells in the cervix that could develop into cervical cancer. When abnormal cells are identified and removed, in many cases it is before the cancer cells start developing. In countries where Pap smears are routine, early diagnosis and treatment of pre-cancerous lesions prevents up to 80% of cervical cancers.
What Is A Pap Smear?
Screening involves taking a swab of the cervical cells. The Pap test involves the collection of cells from the cervix so that they can be examined under the microscope to see if there are any cancerous or pre-cancerous cells. The Pap smear is usually done in conjunction with a pelvic exam. It is uncomfortable, but painless.
Who Should Go For A Pap Smear And How Often?
In South Africa it is recommended that all sexually active should have their first Pap smear between 18 and 25. All women 30 years and older should be tested for cervical cancer during her lifetime. If you are HIV positive, you should have a Pap test immediately after your HIV diagnosis.
Testing is normally repeated every 3 to 5 years. Women with suppressed immune systems (due to HIV, long-term steroid use, or being an organ transplant recipient, for example) should be tested more often.
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in South Africa after breast cancer. Cervical cancer remains an important cause of morbidity and mortality in South Africa and is a national priority in South Africa. The Cancer Association of South Africa says that while COVID-19 takes centre stage, the risks of cancer do not go away. Women need to prioritise their health and go for regular cancer screening.
If you have been recently diagnosed with cancer or you need more information on preventative testing, please contact us on 0861 GOLIFE (465433) or SMS 43821.