Identify the most significant risk factor for cervical cancer, list other factors that must be present for the cancer to develop, and explain how this disease can be detected

Answer 1

(Answers should include at least three of the "other factors.".)

The most significant risk factor for cervical cancer is infection with human papilloma virus (HPV), a group of more than 100 related viruses, some of which can cause cervical cancer. The virus is frequently transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sex; or simply by skin-to-skin contact with a body area infected with HPV. Most infected women do not develop cervical cancer, because other factors must be present for the cancer to develop. These other factors include tobacco use, infections (HIV or chlamydia), a diet low in fruits and vegetables, being overweight, long-term use of birth control pills, multiple pregnancies or pregnancy prior to age 17, and family history.

Early detection through regular screening is critical for prevention of cervical cancer. A Pap test, which screens for precancerous cells, should be done at age 21 and then repeated every three years up to age 65 . Starting at age 30, an HPV test that looks for the virus that causes cellular changes may be used with the Pap test. Conducting both tests is referred to as co-testing. If your test results are normal, your chance of getting cervical cancer in the next few years is very low. Your physician may then inform you that you can wait five years prior to your next screening.

In addition, HPV vaccines are available to prevent cervical cancer and other diseases caused by HPV. Both vaccines protect against HPV types 16 and 18, which cause most cervical cancers. The vaccines are recommended for women between the ages of 11 and 26 . To get the full benefits of the vaccine, women should get vaccinated before they become sexually active.