Courtesy of UBMD OB-GYN

Cervical cancer was once a leading cause of cancer-related death among women. Today, thanks to routine screening and the HPV vaccine, it is largely preventable. Understanding Pap smear screening guidelines and the benefits of HPV vaccination can help women take important steps to protect their health.

A Pap smear is a simple screening procedure that detects abnormal cells on the cervix. During the test, a clinician gently collects a small sample of cervical cells, which is then examined in a laboratory. Detecting abnormal cells early allows physicians to monitor or treat them before they develop into cervical cancer. 

According to Maria S. Morgan, MD, of UBMD OB/GYN, “Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), the most commonly transmitted STI. Nearly 85% to 90% of sexually active individuals will be exposed to HPV during their lifetime. While many HPV infections are cleared by the body’s immune system, some high-risk HPV strains can persist and cause changes in cervical cells that lead to cancer.”

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that cervical cancer screening begin at age 21. “Over the last decade and a half, cervical cancer screening has changed significantly. Most healthy individuals only need to be screened every 3-5 years, unless they are immunocompromised or have a history of abnormal results. Screening should be based on an individual’s risk factors, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.”  

Currently, the most powerful tool in preventing cervical cancer is the HPV vaccine, Gardasil. The vaccine protects against nine high and low-risk HPV types responsible for most cervical cancers, as well as types that cause genital warts,” says Dr. Morgan. HPV vaccination is recommended for all adolescents beginning at ages 11–12. It is also recommended for individuals up to age 26 who were not vaccinated earlier, and can be considered up until age 45, depending on a patient’s specific risk factors. “It works best when administered before exposure to HPV, which is why vaccination during adolescence is strongly encouraged. Even if you have had HPV in the past, vaccination is encouraged because it can prevent additional risk from exposures to different strains of the virus in the future.”

Pap screening and HPV vaccination work together to significantly reduce the risk of cervical cancer. The vaccine helps prevent infection, while screening detects early cellular changes that can be treated before cancer develops. Regular gynecologic care and staying up to date with recommended screenings are essential for protecting a woman’s long-term health. Noting the effectiveness of the HPV vaccine, Dr. Morgan hopes that the United States can achieve the success Australia has reached. Due to Australia’s high vaccination rates and widespread screening program, the country is on track to nearly eliminate cervical cancer by 2035, an admirable goal we as Americans should also aspire to achieve. 
Dr. Morgan is an obstetrician and gynecologist specializing in pediatric and adolescent gynecology. Learn more at https://www.ubmd.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Morgan, call 716-636-8284.