In
2010 approximately 12,200 new cases of a women specific cancer were reported in the
United States and
sadly 4,210 women lost their lives to this form of cancer.
Cervical Caner is cancer of the cervix, the part of the uterus that connects the upper part of the uterus (the womb) and the vagina and is becoming a growing concern in women’s health. Cervical caner is a condition that can be life threatening, and is caused certain high-risk types of HPV (Human Papillomavirus).
Even though cervical cancer rates are growing, there is a simple way to check the cervix for abnormal cells and signs of cancer.
Getting your annual Pap smear, or Pap test, is the best way to ensure that there are no abnormal cells within the cervix that can cause cancer.
During a Pap test, the doctor will collect samples of cells from in and on the cervix. Those cells are then sent to a lab to be tested and examined to ensure healthy cells.
It has been reported that about half of all females diagnosed with cervical cancer are between 35 and 55 years old. Most women that are diagnosed with cervical cancer don’t realize that they contracted HPV in their teens and 20’s.
Phylis Farrell, Nurse Practitioner at Carthage Area Hospital, will be discussing annual Pap tests and how the testing can prevent you from developing abnormal cells.
Each week Live Right Now, brought to you by Carthage Area Hospital health experts, will outline a new health topic and discuss how to maintain your health.
Produced by: Eric Cleary
