What are the diagnostic tests to combat cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer (of the cervix) is a disease in which cells of the cervix multiply uncontrollably. The main cause is the human papillomavirus (HPV). It is estimated that 8 out of 10 sexually active people will be exposed to HPV at some point in their lives. The best strategy to prevent infection with HPV is vaccination at an early age.

More than 50% of all new cases of cervical cancer occur in women who have never been screened or who have not been screened in the last five years of their lives. In its early stages, cervical cancer usually has no signs or symptoms.

There are two tests for the detection of premalignant conditions of the cervix:

• Papanicolaou or cervical cytology can detect precancerous cells, which can be treated to prevent cervical cancer. It is recommended to all women over the age of 21 to 65.
• The high-risk HPV test. It is recommended from 30 years of age.

Diagnostic colposcopy is recommended in patients with cell abnormalities of the genital tract and/or in high-risk HPV-exposed patients.

Cervical cancer can be prevented. Talk to your gynecologist and learn about the different screening tests. Get the one that’s right for you and be sure to track the results.

If you have little income or no health insurance, you could get a free Pap smear and mammogram through the Puerto Rico National Program for the Early Detection of Breast and Cervical Cancer. For more information, call 787-522-3265.

Currently, we are conducting research on patients with premalignant conditions of the cervix at the Medical Sciences Campus. You can contact us at 939-213-3554 or email: [email protected].

The author is a gynecologist and obstetrician, and a professor at the Medical Sciences Campus of the University of Puerto Rico.