Let’s be honest. No one enjoys a visit to the gynecologist for a Pap smear. It’s an uncomfortable and incredibly awkward procedure. However, it’s a life saving test that far too many women avoid due to the discomfort. As women get closer to the age of 65, they make fewer appointments to check for cervical cancer (CDC). According to the CDC, women over the age of 65 require “several tests in a row that didn’t find cancer within the previous 10 years, including at least 1 test in the previous 5 years.” Unfortunately, many women over the age of 65 are told they no longer need screenings.
Cervical Cancer Causes
Nearly all cases of cervical cancer are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), specifically higher risk infections such as HPV 16 and HPV 18 (National Cancer Institute). While most HPV infections are self resolved, there are some infections that can wreck havoc for years and result in unusual cervical cells, which then form cervical lesions. If these lesions are left untreated, they may progress into cervical cancer.
Cervical Cancer Treatments
Doctors will determine the treatment based on how aggressive the cancer has gotten. They will categorize it into stages and proceed from there. Treatment may include:
Surgery: Surgeons will surgically remove the cancer.
Chemotherapy: Special medications, either intravenously or through pills, that will shrink the cancer.
Radiation Therapy: Similar to x rays, doctors will use high-energy rays to kill the cancer.
Immunotherapy: This treatment will work with your immune system to fight the cancer. It might also be used to help control side effects of other treatments or medications.
Targeted therapy: Certain medications that are used to slow down the cancer, which can be given either intravenously or through pills.
(CDC)
Get Tested for Cervical Cancer Today
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. It’s the perfect month to go and get tested, even if you are over 65. “An estimated 20% of all cervical cancer cases in the United States are diagnosed in women over age 65. Elderly women are more likely to be diagnosed with late stage cancer, resulting in worse outcomes and higher mortality rates” (NIH). It’s important to take the time time to protect our health even if it is uncomfortable.
