Early detection can save lives

Cervical cancer can be found through Pap smears

Cervical cancer can be found in the lower part of the uterus (womb) in a woman’s body. The part of the cervix closest to the body of the uterus is called the endocervix. The part next to the vagina is the ectocervix.  Most cervical cancers start where these two parts meet.

There are two main types of cervical cancers: squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. About 80% to 90% of cervical cancers are squamous cell carcinomas. The remaining 10% to 20% of cervical cancers are adenocarcinomas.

Cervical cancer begins in the lining of the cervix. Normal cervical cells can gradually develop pre-cancerous changes that turn to cancer.

By having regular Pap tests, cervical cancer can be detected early. Being alert to any signs and symptoms of cervical cancer can also help avoid unnecessary delays in diagnosis. Early detection greatly improves the chances of successful treatment and prevents any early cervical cell changes from becoming cancerous.

Despite the benefits of Pap test screening, not all American women take advantage of it. Between 60% and 80% of American women with newly diagnosed invasive cervical cancer have not had a Pap   test in five years, and many of these women have never had a Pap test.

In particular, elderly, African American and/or low-income women are less likely to have regular Pap tests. According to statistics, cervical cancer is the major cause of cancer deaths in women in many developing countries.

The three main methods of cancer treatment are surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Sometimes the best treatment approach uses two or more of these methods. If a cure is not possible, the goal may be to remove or destroy as much of the cancer as possible to prevent the tumor from growing, spreading, or returning for as long as possible.

Only some women with pre-cancerous changes of the cervix will develop cancer which can take several years but sometimes can occur in less than a year. For most women, pre-cancerous cells will remain unchanged and go away without any treatment. But if these precancers are treated, almost all true cancers can be prevented.

After establishing the stage of cervical cancer, the doctor and cancer care team will recommend one or more treatment options. Be sure you understand all the risks and side effects of the various treatments before making a decision.

Don’t be afraid to seek a second opinion, especially with doctors experienced in treating cervical cancer. A second opinion may provide more information and also help build confidence about the treatment plan that is being considered.

Early detection and treatment are the best life-saving tools.