Health Feature of the Month: Cervical Health Awareness and Cervical Cancer Prevention

Cervical cancer prevention through regular Pap and human papilloma virus (HPV) screenings as well as HPV vaccination for women. Since HPV is the most common cause of cervical cancer, early detection is important because it improves outcomes. VA Women’s Health Physician Emily V. Capbarat, PhD, reminds women Veterans that cervical health is important. Dr. Capbarat, who operates a well-women’s clinic weekly at the DC VA Medical Center, encourages you to contact your provider to discuss and schedule your next cervical cancer screening at the appropriate time and to see if you are a candidate for the HPV Gardasil vaccine. For Veterans in the DC-area, scheduling with your VA primary care provider can be done by calling .

Cervical Cancer Explained:

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that forms in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus, usually caused by a persistent infection with the human papillomavirus. These cancerous cells grow and potentially form tumors that can invade nearby tissues or spread to other body parts. However, cervical cancer is preventable through screening and vaccination. People with HIV or compromised immune systems are at higher risk, and smoking increases the likelihood of developing cervical cancer. Symptoms may not be present early on but as the cancer progresses people may experience abnormal vaginal bleeding, unusual vaginal discharge, pain during intercourse, and/or pelvic pain.

Key Facts:

Prevention: The HPV vaccine protects against the high-risk HPV strains that cause most cervical cancers. Speak with your provider about the HPV Gardasil vaccine to see if you are a candidate.

Screening: Pap tests look for cell changes and HPV tests look for the virus. Discuss screening with your provider as there are evidence-based guidelines for determining when cervical cancer screening is due.

Education: Share information with family and friends about the risks and prevention opportunities. Encourage them to speak with their provider about screenings and vaccination.

Support: When a loved one has an abnormal screening result or a positive test for HPV, support by learning more about screenings and treatments and consider being a listening ear, a voice of encouragement, or suggest a local post-cancer support group.