Cervical cancer prevention: the importance of regular screenings

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer, yet it still claims lives around the world because of late diagnosis and a lack of awareness. Regular screening plays a vital part in cervical cancer prevention, and understanding why it matters can save lives. In this post I explain how screening works, the role of the HPV vaccine, and when you should be screened.

Why regular screening is the key to cervical cancer prevention

Cervical cancer usually develops slowly, over many years, and it often starts with precancerous changes in the cells of the cervix. These changes can be found early through cervical screening, which tests for human papillomavirus (HPV) and for abnormal cells. Finding changes early means they can be treated before they ever develop into cancer.

Women who go for regular screening have a much lower risk of developing cervical cancer. According to the World Health Organization, routine screening can reduce the number of cervical cancers by up to 90%. Our smear tests and cervical screening page explains what happens at the appointment.

The role of HPV vaccination in cervical cancer prevention

HPV is the main cause of cervical cancer and is responsible for about 99% of cases. Vaccination against HPV is a highly effective way to prevent infection with the types of the virus most likely to cause cancer. However, it does not remove the need for screening. Even if you have been vaccinated, you should keep going for your smear tests, because the vaccine does not protect against every cancer-causing type of HPV.

Our post on the role of HPV in cervical cancer explains how the virus causes cell changes and why most infections clear by themselves.

When and how often to be screened

For most women and people with a cervix, screening begins at 25 and continues regularly until around 65. How often you are invited depends on your age, your health history and your previous results. If your result shows HPV or abnormal cells, you may be asked to return sooner, or offered a colposcopy to look more closely at the cervix. Your doctor can guide you on the schedule that is right for you.

What happens if your result is abnormal?

An abnormal result is common and rarely means cancer. It usually means there are early changes that need monitoring or simple treatment. Our abnormal cervical smears page explains the possible results and what happens next, step by step.

Making screening easier

Many people feel anxious about a smear test, and that is completely understandable. You can ask for a female doctor or nurse, bring someone with you, or ask for a smaller speculum. The test itself takes only a few minutes, and you can ask to stop at any time.

Take charge of your health

Prevention is always better than cure. By going for regular cervical screening, you protect your own health and contribute to the global effort to eliminate cervical cancer. Book your screening when you are invited, and encourage the women in your life to do the same.

The World Health Organization explains the global plan to eliminate cervical cancer, and Cancer Research UK describes how cervical screening works. Read more on our cervical cancer page. At Gynae Solution, we are here to support you: please contact us to book a screening or learn more about our women's health services.