January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month—let’s talk about the importance of prevention!
Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers that we can prevent—and that’s all thanks to regular screenings. This month is the perfect time to remind ourselves how important it is to take care of our cervical health. Regular screenings, like Pap smears and HPV tests, can catch issues early, before they turn into something more serious.
Pap Smears vs. HPV Tests: What’s the Difference?
You may have heard about Pap smears and HPV tests, but what’s the difference? Both are key tools for cervical cancer screening, and they work together to keep you healthy.
- Pap Smear: This test checks for abnormal cells on your cervix. If any unusual changes are found, it could be a sign of early-stage cancer or precancerous cells that could turn into cancer over time. Early detection means treatment can be started early—before it becomes cancer.
- HPV Test: The HPV test looks for the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that can cause cervical cancer. Most people with HPV don’t even know they have it because it usually doesn’t show symptoms. But certain high-risk strains of HPV are known to cause cell changes that can lead to cancer over time.
While the Pap smear looks for changes in cells, the HPV test looks for the virus that can cause those changes.
When Should You Start Screening?
The guidelines for cervical cancer screening are simple and designed to catch any early signs before they become serious. Here’s what you need to know:
- Ages 21–29: Pap smear every 3 years. Check out our guide to screenings in your 20’s.
- Ages 30–65: Pap smear and HPV test every 5 years (this is the preferred method) or a Pap smear every 3 years. Take a look at our guide to screenings in your 30’s and 40’s and 50’s.
- Ages 65+: If you’ve had normal results in the past, you may be able to stop screening, but always talk to your doctor to make sure.
Why this matters: Regular screening is key to finding any changes early. Catching abnormalities early means they can be treated before they become cancer, reducing the risk of development down the road.
Pap Smears Are Essential In The Fight Against Cervical Cancer.
Obria offers low cost pap smears, well woman exams and reproductive health screenings. Book yours today!
Why Early Detection Makes a Big Difference
Cervical cancer tends to develop slowly, often over many years. The good news is, when caught early, it’s highly treatable. In fact, the 5-year survival rate for women with early-stage cervical cancer is over 92%. That’s why screenings are so powerful—they help catch things before they become cancer.
- Preventing Cancer: By detecting precancerous cells early, doctors can treat them before they turn into full-blown cancer. That’s huge! Regular screenings can stop cancer before it ever starts.
- Better Treatment Outcomes: If detected in its early stages, the chances of successful treatment are much higher. That’s why sticking to the screening schedule is so important—it could save your life.
Take Action Cervical Cancer Awareness Month: Book a Low Cost Pap Smear
This month is the perfect reminder to schedule your screening if you’re due. Obria Medical Clinics offer low-cost Pap Smears, HPV Tests, and Well-Woman exams at our national clinic locations near you. Book your appointment with us today!
A friendly reminder to share this blog post with your friends and family
Raise awareness about cervical cancer and help loved one recognize its earliest signs. Also, consider donating to cervical cancer research to support the fight against this disease.
Obria Medical Clinics Offers Low-cost Well Woman Exams & Reproductive Health Screenings.
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