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    January is National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month

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    January is National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month

    CERVICAL CANCER:   THE BASICS

    In 2023, it’s estimated that 14,000 women will be diagnosed with cervical cancer and an estimated 4000 will die from it.  Hispanic women have the highest likelihood of developing cervical cancer and black women are the most likely to die from it. But here’s the good news – increasing vaccination rates and routine screening can reduce the risk of cervical cancer by 90%! 

    The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina and cervical cancer begins when healthy cells undergo changes or mutations in their DNA.  These mutations allow the cells to grow and multiply out of control as they escape the normal process of programmed cell death.  The accumulating abnormal cells form a mass or a tumor on the cervix and, over time, these cells can invade nearby tissues and metastasize to other sites in the body.  For cervical cancer, nearby structures like the uterus and pelvis, as well as the lungs, liver and bone are the most common sites of metastasis. 

    Almost all cervical cancer cases (99%) are linked to infection with high risk human papillomavirus (HPV), an extremely common virus transmitted through sexual contact. Although most infections with HPV resolve spontaneously and cause no symptoms, persistent infection can cause cervical cancer in women.

    SYMPTOMS

    Early-stage cervical cancer has no signs or symptoms which is why regular screening with pap smears and HPV testing is critical.  Advanced cervical cancer may present with abnormal vaginal bleeding, abnormal vaginal discharge or pelvic pain. 

    TYPES OF CERVICAL CANCER

    Squamous cell carcinoma:

    Most cervical cancers (up to 90%) are squamous cell carcinomas. These cancers develop from cells in the ectocervix or outer portion of the cervix.

    Adenocarcinoma:

    Cervical adenocarcinomas develop in the glandular cells of the endocervix or inner portion of the cervix.

    RISK FACTORS

    1. Humanpapilloma virus infection
    2. Many sexual partners
    3. Early sexual activity
    4. Other sexually transmitted infections, especially HIV
    5. A weakened immune system (ie, following organ transplant)
    6. Smoking
    7. In utero exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES)

     

    PREVENTION

    Since HPV is the most common cause of cervical cancer, the #1 step to prevent cervical cancer is to protect yourself from this viral infection!

    GARDASIL 9 EXPANDED FOR PATIENTS AGED 27-45 YEARS OLD

    1. HPV vaccination, also known as Gardasil 9, is now available up to age 45! Check out our post from a few years ago (link above)
    2. Routine pap smears
    3. Minimize sexual partners and initiate intercourse later in life
    4. Avoid tobacco use
    5. Maintain a healthy immune system

    If you’re overdue for your annual exam and/or think you are a candidate for the Gardasil vaccine, call us at 202-449-9570 to set up a visit with one of our Bloom Ob/Gyn providers!

    Out of respect for other patients and our providers, we kindly request 24-hour notification for cancellation of appointments. Failure to do so will result in a “No Show Fee” of $50.00. Additional charges will be assessed for missed ultrasound appointments and procedures.