What are prevention strategies for cervical cancer?
> HPV is the cause of cervical cancer, though more than 90% of women with HPV will never get cervical cancer. Risk of exposure to HPV can be reduced by waiting to engage in sexual intercourse until an older age and reducing the number of sexual partners. Research indicates that condoms do not protect against HPV transmission, though they may speed clearance of HPV infections by a woman’s immune system. Condom use is also important to prevent risk from other sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV. > Cervical cancer screening – Adhere to the recommended cervical cancer screening guidelines Regular pap smears can detect changes in the cervix before they develop into cancer. > Diet – Eating a healthy diet, which is low in fat and includes at least nine servings of fruits and vegetables each day. > Smoking – Smoking increases risk for cervical cancer. Women who smoke should talk to their health care provider about smoking cessation. Is screening available? The Pap test is the most common
