Ask a Pro with Dr. John Watkins, Bismarck Cancer Center
Q: I am a 20 year old college student and wondering what I can do to reduce my risk of cervical cancer?
A: The most important thing you can do to help prevent cervical cancer is to have regular screening tests starting at age 21. The Pap test looks for precancers or cell changes on the cervix that might become cervical cancer if they are not treated appropriately and the HPV test looks for the virus (human papillomavirus) that can cause these cell changes. These tests can be done in a doctor’s office or clinic. Cervical cancer can take 10-15 years to develop into cancer. This is why your yearly checkups are essential and it’s important to realize precancerous conditions are very treatable.
Almost all cervical cancers are caused by HPV. You are more likely to get HPV if you or your partner have had multiple sexual partners. Cervical cancer can be prevented through the HPV vaccine, which is given in a series of two or three shots and is recommended for boys and girls older than 11. Other safety precautions: don’t smoke, use condoms during sex, and limit your number of sexual partners.