|
Cervical Cancer Information |
|
Cervical cancer refers to cancer of the uterine cervix, which is the lower, narrow end of the uterus. During 2002, about 4,100 women in the United States died from cervical cancer. This number reflects an estimated 70 percent decline from the mid-20th century, when the Papanicolaou (Pap) test - the collection of cells from the cervix for examination under a microscope - was first introduced as a screening tool. Cervical cancer screening is important to detect significant abnormal cell changes that may arise before cancer develops. A Pap test and pelvic exam are important parts of a woman’s routine health care because they can detect cancer or abnormalities that may lead to cancer of the cervix. Women should have a Pap test at least once every three years, beginning about three years after they become sexually active, but no later than age 21. If the Pap test shows abnormalities, further tests and/or treatment may be necessary. For more information about cervical cancer, visit: |
