Quick Facts about HPV and Cervical Cancer

January is almost over. After all the awareness campaigning and posts by multiple organizations, how much more do you know about cervical cancer or HPV?

In case you’re still a bit confused, below is a list of general facts about HPV and cervical cancer.

• It is estimated that 20 million Americans currently carry the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the most common sexually transmitted virus that leads to cervical cancer.
• About 12,000 women in the U.S. are prone to cervical cancer each year.
• It is preventable if detected early, and the rate of cure is very high.
• It usually occurs in midlife
• It is not common among younger women and girls, but does happen.
• More than 20 percent of cases are found in women over 65.
• Hispanic women are more prone to it, followed by African-Americans, Asians and Pacific Islanders, and Caucasians.
• The Pap test detects pre-cancerous cells and cancerous cells in the cervix.
• An HPV vaccination program is recommended for 11- 26-year-olds. 
• In addition to having HPV, other factors that may increase chances of contracting cervical cancer are smoking, having HIV, using birth control pills for a long time, or giving birth to at least three children.
• Once diagnosed with cervical cancer, patients should ask for a reference to a gynecologic oncologist, who will frame the treatment plan.
• A colonoscopy or a cervical biopsy may be advised to study the cervix closely.

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