The uterus (womb) makes up part of the female reproductive system. The cervix is the narrow canal at the entrance to the uterus.
All cells in the body undergo orderly, controlled cycles of growth, repair and death. Cancer develops when some cells become abnormal, experience uncontrolled growth and spread to
other parts of the body. Cervical cancer in its early stages has few symptoms. For this reason, regular screening is needed to detect pre-cancerous changes or cervical cancer before it has spread.
All women are considered at risk for cervical cancer and the American Cancer Society (ACS) cites these additional risk factors:
Cigarette smoking
Early onset of sexual activity (before age 18)
Multiple sex partners or whose partners have had multiple
partners
History of sexually transmitted diseases
Early detection is the key to survival and the ACS recommends that all women who are or have been sexually active or who are 18 years of age and older have an annual Pap smear and
pelvic examination. After three or more normal annual exams, the Pap test may be performed less frequently as determined by the doctor.
A woman can take an active role in her healthcare by discussing with her healthcare provider her risk for cervical cancer, lifestyle choices to reduce the risk, symptoms to report and
frequency of screening exams.
