Cervical cancer rates have decreased steadily over the last several decades. This is largely due to early detection screening programs for this cancer using the Pap smear. The bad news is that this cancer, which is almost entirely preventable, still occurs. This is because all women are not getting routine pap smears.

Sexually active women are at risk for this cancer. Other risk factors include:
* a history of multiple sex partners,
* infection with the human papilloma virus,
* early age of first intercourse, and
* smoking.

Signs and symptoms of cervical cancer include abnormal uterine bleeding or spotting, and abnormal vaginal discharge. Pain and systemic symptoms would mean the cancer was in a later stage of the disease.

The Pap smear is used for early detection. It is a simple test done by your health care professional. It is part of your pelvic exam. This test should be done with your pelvic exam if you are or have been sexually active. Otherwise, you should be begin having the Pap smear when you have reached 18 years of age. If you have had 3 or more yearly exams in a row that are normal, your doctor may perform the test less often. Women over age 65, and those who have had surgical removal of their uterus, may not need Pap smears.

Cervical cancer is generally treated by surgery or radiation therapy. It may also be treated by a combination of the two therapies. Precancerous changes in the cervix may be treated by freezing the cervical tissues, also known as cryosurgery. It also may be treated by electro-coagulation. This is the destruction of tissue through intense heat by electric current. Local surgery is an option in some cases.

To learn more about cervical cancer, call the American Cancer Society at (800) ACS-2345 or the National Cancer Institute at(800) 4-CANCER.

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