What is Cervical Cancer?

Do you know much about cervical cancer? Have you ever thought that you might be at risk? Well, you are not alone in your thinking. Women around the world do not realise that they are at risk. The facts are that cervical cancer is the most common cancer in women aged between 15 and 44 years. In the UK, alone, there are about 2800 new cases of cervical cancer every year and about 1100 deaths; this means that on average 21 women die each week from cervical cancer, yearly. Getting educated, finding more information and ensuring your personal health is your responsibility, make sure you take care and use the information provided to you to maintain a healthy body and a healthy life.

These shocking statistics and facts will show that many people are ignorant to cervical cancer; if more was known about this common, lethal disease the statistics would not be so shocking. This is because cervical cancer is treatable if caught early. Prevention is the best method to ensure this cancer never affects you; regular cervical screening and early detection are the best preventative methods. You may wonder why regular screening is necessary: the fact is that a virus called human papillomavirus nearly always causes cervical cancer, and most women will be exposed to this virus in their life. Another shocking statistic is that up to 80% of sexually active women will have an infection in their lifetime. Most of these infections are cleared and fought by the body's immune system, and you will not notice any symptoms.

Looking at the facts, and taking into consideration that up to 80% of sexually active women are at risk, all women should take precautionary measures to ensure optimum health. Preventative measures are simple: getting expert advice from your doctor or local family planning centre will help you take the first steps to prevention of cervical cancer. Depending on your risk factors, your doctor will inform you how often you need to have a smear test (cervical screening test).

If you think that you are not at risk, because you use a condom, the facts remain that condoms will not always protect you from picking up the human papillomavirus. Women can have been exposed to the virus many years before the virus creates abnormal cells, leading to cervical cancer. We recommend that you do not risk your health and your life by taking risky chances. There are many good websites on the internet, where you can find more information, or you can talk to your health-provider. Make sure you do not become a statistic, educate yourself about cervical cancer and live a long and healthy life.