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Although more than 12,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with cervical cancer every year and about 4,000 people die of it, cervical cancer can be prevented through regular check-ups. If discovered and treated early, it can be cured. Almost all cervical cancers are caused by HPV (human papillomavirus), an infection that can be passed from one person to another during sexual activity.
It is estimated that about 79 million Americans have HPV, and many people do not know they are infected. Most HPV patients will not experience any symptoms. In most cases, the infection disappears on its own. However, when it does not resolve, it can cause a variety of cancers in both men and women — including cervical cancer, vulvar cancer, vaginal cancer, anal cancer, laryngeal cancer, tongue cancer, tonsil cancer, and penile cancer. This is why understanding HPV is important for everyone, not just women.
Fortunately, vaccines are available that protect against the HPV types that cause most cervical cancers and genital warts. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that young girls and boys be vaccinated against HPV at 11 or 12 years old, but women under 26 and men under 21 can still be vaccinated. College students who have not yet been vaccinated are encouraged to do so regardless of gender. The best ways to prevent HPV include vaccination, practicing safe sex, limiting the number of sexual partners, and not smoking.
The Pap test (or cervical smear) helps find pre-cancerous lesions — the only way cervical cells change before becoming cancer. If not addressed properly, these changes may develop into cervical cancer. The HPV test detects the viruses that cause these cell changes. Both tests can be performed by a doctor at the same time. Women should start regular Pap tests at the age of 21, and women aged 30 and over are recommended to undergo combined Pap and HPV testing. At present, two-valent and four-valent vaccines are available in mainland China, offering protection against up to four virus types, while Hong Kong has already listed the nine-valent vaccine, which prevents nine types of HPV infection and offers the most comprehensive protection currently available.
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About Sai Sree
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This article is for educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified oncology specialist. Every patient's case is different. Treatment decisions should always be made after a review of complete medical records by the treating medical team.
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