Gynecologic & Colorectal Cancers

Cervical Cancer

• Cervical cancer is almost completely preventable with regular Pap tests, which can detect abnormal cells before they become cancer.
• Risk for developing cervical cancer increases in women who do not receive regular Pap tests and pelvic exams; if you or your sex partner have or have had multiple sex partners; if you have a history of genital warts or HPV (human papilloma virus) infection; and/or if you smoke.
• Frequently there are no symptoms associated with cervical cancer. However, warning signs can include abnormal bleeding, spotting or discharge from the vagina and back or leg pain.
• Early detection and prevention for cervical cancer includes regular recto-vaginal pelvic exams and Pap tests (usually every 1-3 years) and practicing safer sex. The American Cancer Society advises that all women who are or have been sexually active or who are 18 or older should have an annual Pap test and pelvic examination. After three or more consecutive satisfactory examinations with normal findings, the Pap test may be performed less frequently. Discuss the matter with your health care professional.
• Between 60-80% of women with newly diagnosed invasive cervical cancer have either not had a Pap test in the past 5 years or have never had one.
• Uninsured women are less likely than insured women to be screened, making them most at risk to develop cervical cancer. Approximately 1 in 6 uninsured women have never had a Pap test, compared to only 1 in 17 women with health insurance. Uninsured patients are also more likely to die prematurely because of delayed diagnosis.
• From 1988-1999, invasive cervical cancer incidence declined in each of the four major racial/ethnic groups in California.

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