Cervical cancer can be prevented: Get screened!
Cervical cancer is preventable! Women can take action by getting screened regularly, starting at age 21. Early detection makes a big difference—it can save lives.
Most cervical cancers are caused by HPV, a very common virus spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact. Many women will have HPV at some point, but most won’t even know it. For some, HPV can lead to cervical cancer.
Screening for cervical cancer is easy
The two main tests to screen for cervical cancer are the Pap test (also known as Pap smear) and the HPV test. They help find cervical cancer early or even stop it before it starts.
If your Pap test results are abnormal, it’s usually not cancer. Most often, it means HPV has caused changes in your cervical cells that need a closer look. Learn more about abnormal Pap results and the specialists available at Denver Harbor Family Health Center.
HPV Vaccine can lower the risk of cervical cancer
Women can also lower their risk with the HPV vaccine. The vaccine protects against the types of HPV that most often cause cervical cancer. It’s a safe and effective way to protect your health.
Your health matters! Be proactive and prevent cervical cancer!
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable types of cancer. Yet, each year, about 11,500 women in the U.S. are diagnosed with cervical cancer, and 4,000 die from it. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Early detection and prevention can stop it before it becomes serious and life-threatening.
Call to schedule your screening!
Call to schedule your cervical cancer screening or HPV vaccination at either of our locations.
Airline Children & Women’s Health Center
713-695-4013
Denver Harbor Family Health Center
713-674-3326
What is a Pap test or Pap smear?
A Pap test checks for changes in the cells of a woman’s cervix that could be caused by HPV or early signs of cervical cancer. During the test, a doctor gently collects a small sample of cells from the cervix. It’s quick, and while it might feel a little uncomfortable, it shouldn’t be painful. Regular Pap tests are the best way to catch problems early when they’re easier to treat.
What is an HPV text?
An HPV test checks for the presence of the human papillomavirus (HPV), the main cause of cervical cancer in women. This test is often done at the same time as a Pap test using the same cell sample. An HPV test can identify high-risk types of HPV before they cause problems, helping doctors take action to prevent cervical cancer.