This is a Public Cervix Announcement!

In honour of Cervical Cancer Awareness month, last week we covered the importance of Pap smears in the Pap smears save lives, Period article. This week I would like to outline the many different ways you can reduce your risk of Cervical Cancer.

To recap:

The Cervix is the part of a woman’s womb (also known as the uterus) that opens into the top of the vaginal canal. It can be infected by HPV, the Human Papilloma Virus, during unprotected sexual intercourse. Sometimes, the body’s immune system can get rid of the HPV, other times it can’t. When it can’t, the HPV can cause some of the cells of the cervix to become Cancerous.

What is THE GOLD STANDARD for Cervical Cancer prevention?

The gold standard for Cervical Cancer Prevention is: (1) Pap smear & HPV testing, and (2) HPV vaccination

The Pap smear: As outlined in Pap smears save lives, Period, a Pap smear is a simple procedure, where a sample of cells are taken from the cervix by gently brushing the cervix with a special brush. The cells that are collected on the brush are sent to the lab to test for cancer cells and HPV.

Generally (according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists) a Pap smear should be done:

Every 3 years in females 21 to 29 years old,
And, every 3 years in females 30 to 65 years old if done alone OR every 5 years if HPV testing is added.

Remember, these are GENERAL guidelines, and your doctor may advise more frequent testing based on your own medical history.

HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) Vaccination:

Did you know that MOST people will become infected with HPV during their lifetime?

ALSO,

Did you know that there is a vaccine for HPV?

There are over 200 types of HPV, and some carry a higher risk for causing cancer than others. The HPV vaccine protects against the HPV strains that are known to carry a high risk of causing cancer of the Cervix AND cancer of the Vagina and Vulva (the part of the female genitalia that you can see on the outside).

Who can take the vaccine?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), The HPV vaccine is recommended for

Preteens ages 9 to 14 years old,
- The vaccine works best in this group because their immune systems respond well to the vaccine, AND they would be less likely to have been exposed to HPV at this age than adults.
Anyone up to 26 years old can take it if they have never had the vaccine before.

If you are over 26 years old the HPV vaccine is not recommended because you have very likely been exposed to HPV already. HPV vaccine does not treat HPV, it prevents infection in people who don’t have it yet.

If you are between 27 and 45 years old, and you have not had the vaccine, and you want to have it done, you can speak to doctor about it. Remember, the vaccine isn’t as effective in this age group because it’s likely you have already been exposed to HPV.

If you have questions about the vaccine overall, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor!

Are there other ways to lower your risk for Cervical Cancer?

ABSOLUTELY!

Stop Smoking: In medical school, if the lecturer asked for a risk factor for ANY cancer at all, you would be safe saying cigarette smoking. Cigarette smoking is terrible for health and increases the risk of many cancers, and Cervical Cancer is one of them.
Use of Condoms during sex: While condom use doesn’t completely eliminate the risk of getting HPV during sex, it certainly helps. Condom use has been associated with LOWER RATES of Cervical Cancer.
Eating well, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight all help to support your immune system, which is important to fight HPV infection if you are exposed. Try to get your 5 fruits and vegetables each day, and exercise for at least 30 minutes for at least 5 days a week.

I hope you find this information helpful! Remember, if you have any questions at all, remember, talk to your doctor. It’s always a good idea to write down any questions you may have before you get to your doctor’s office, that way you won’t forget anything.

Wishing you a safe and healthy week ahead!

Dr Rachel Thwaites-Williams,
Family Physician and Public Health Specialist