In honor of January being National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, we are focusing on the importance of cervical cancer screening. To help our community stay informed, Patricia Garduno, a Family Nurse Practitioner from the Asbury Park Community Health Center, answered some of the most commonly asked questions she receives about cervical cancer. Screening is a key part of routine health care for people who have a cervix, and learning more about it can help prevent cancer before it develops.
What are the key risk factors for cervical cancer, and how can they be reduced?
HPV (human papilloma virus) can cause changes in cervical cells that may lead to cancer. Individuals who have a cervix should participate in routine screening to catch these changes early. Regular check-ups and follow-up care can greatly reduce the risk of cervical cancer developing.
How often should patients get screened, and at what age should screenings begin?
Cervical cancer screening should start at age 21. Screening is typically done during a pelvic exam and helps detect cell changes before symptoms appear. Follow-up and treatment are guided by national guidelines to ensure abnormal results are managed effectively.
What is the role of the HPV vaccine in preventing cervical cancer, and who should get vaccinated?
HPV causes the cell changes that can lead to cervical cancer. Preventing HPV infection through vaccination can lower the risk of developing these changes. The vaccine is part of broader efforts to reduce cervical cancer and is recommended for eligible individuals before exposure to the virus.
What are the early symptoms of cervical cancer, and why is early detection important?
Cervical cancer often has no early symptoms, which is why screening is so important. Detecting changes early allows treatment to prevent cancer before it develops. Early detection improves outcomes and can save lives.
What is the significance of the Pap smear and HPV tests, and how do they differ?
The Pap test collects cervical cells to check for HPV-related changes or other conditions, like infections or inflammation. These tests help identify precancerous changes early, when treatment can prevent cervical cancer. HPV tests specifically look for the virus that causes these changes, making screening more precise.
Patricia Garduno is a Family Nurse Practitioner who graduated from the UCLA School of Nursing. She brings extensive experience in women’s health, having worked exclusively in this field for many years. Patricia also has hands-on experience in labor and delivery at a county facility, giving her a deep understanding of the unique health needs of women across all stages of life. She is passionate about providing compassionate, patient-centered care and helping her patients make informed decisions about their health.
