WAHLUKE — Cervical cancer is one of the easiest gynecological cancers to prevent with regular screening tests, according to Dr. Monique Small, CBHA obstetrician/gynecologist.

There are two screening tests that have proven effective to help prevent cervical cancer or detect it early. Small said. The first is a Pap test in which cells are collected and sent to a laboratory to look for any abnormalities.

“We recommend young women begin screening with this test at the age of 21 with follow-up screening every three years, regardless of the age of onset of sexual activity,” Small said.

The second test screens for the HPV. Small said this screening exam usually starts around the age of 30. The HPV test screens for the HPV (human papilloma virus).

“The human papilloma virus is the leading cause of cervical cancer,” Small said. “We can combine the Pap and HPV tests. If both of these tests are normal, no further testing is necessary again for another five years.”

Small advises women to see their gynecologist or primary care provider about the frequency of screening tests after age 30. “There are a lot of guidelines out there and they change frequently so it can become confusing,” Small said. “We like to look at our patients’ medical history and make a decision together with them about how often they should be screened. The important thing is to get this screening done”

Almost all cervical cancers are caused by HPV (human papilloma virus) which is one of the most commonly sexually transmitted diseases.

When a female is infected with HPV, and the virus doesn’t go away on its own, abnormal cells can develop in the lining of the cervix. If these cells are not caught early via Pap tests and treated, pre cancers and cancers can develop.

There are currently two vaccines available that will help prevent certain types of cervical cancer – Gardasil and Cervarix. The FDA (Food Drug Administration) has approved Gardasil for the prevention of several types of cancer. It is approved for use in females and males ages 9 to 26.

The FDA has also approved Cervarix for prevention of cervical cancer caused by two different types of HPV.

“All kids who are 11 or 12 years old should get the three-dose series of HPV vaccine to protect against HPV, Small said. Teen boys and girls who did not start or finish the HPV vaccine series when they were younger should get it now. Young women can get HPV vaccine through age 26, and young men can get vaccinated through age 21…”

“This is a sensitive subject and we advise our patients to talk to their medical providers about the vaccines and which one might be the best fit for their child,” Small said. “These vaccines are proving effective against cervical cancer later when the child reaches adulthood.”

Small sees patients at 14th Avenue Medical Center and the Othello Family Clinic. To schedule an appointment, call 509-488-5256.