Now that more of our patients are vaccinated against HPV, we are starting to see huge benefits – we are doing many fewer procedures to treat pre-cancer than we were doing ten years ago.
Cervical cancer was once the leading cause of cancer death for women, before the introduction of the Pap test more than 80 years ago.¹ With the widespread implementation of Pap screening, followed much later by prevention through HPV vaccination, it is now rare in the U.S. Despite this success, an estimated 13,000 U.S. women will be diagnosed with cervical cancer this year. Understanding the causes, risk factors, and prevention strategies for women in Boulder County can help reduce the chances of developing this disease and improve women’s health.
What Causes Cervical Cancer?
Nearly all cases of cervical cancer are linked to human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus transmitted through sexual contact. Most sexually active people will get HPV at some point, often without knowing it. While the immune system clears most HPV infections naturally, some types can lead to cervical pre-cancer and cancer.
How to Prevent Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer prevention involves a combination of routine screening and HPV vaccination:
-
- Pap and HPV tests can detect who is at increased risk for cervical pre-cancer and cancer
- The HPV vaccine protects against the most common high-risk strains of the virus
“The vast majority of cervical cancer is preventable,” says Dr. Alison Cowan, MD, an OB-GYN at Boulder Medical Center. “I tell my patients that as long as they have regular surveillance and follow-up, their chances of developing cervical cancer are incredibly low. Now that more of our patients are vaccinated against HPV, we are starting to see huge benefits – we are doing many fewer procedures to treat pre-cancer than we were doing ten years ago. It’s phenomenal to see the impact of HPV vaccination in my daily practice. Prevention through screening and vaccination saves lives.”
Cervical Cancer Screening Guidelines
Several different screening strategies are commonly used in the United States, and guidelines are currently being revised, with updates anticipated soon. Typically, screening consists of Pap and/or HPV testing, and is performed:
-
-
- Starting at age 21
- Repeating every 3-5 years if normal
- Continuing until at least age 65
-
It is essential to know that your screening recommendations might vary depending on your history and risk factors, so it’s important to discuss your recommendations with your provider.
Vaccination Guidelines
-
- HPV vaccination protects against the most common, highest-risk types of HPV. It also prevents the most common types of HPV that cause genital warts.
- HPV vaccination is recommended between 9 and 12, ideally before any exposure to the virus
- Both men and women should receive the HPV vaccination
- Because there are many different strains of HPV, it can be beneficial to vaccinate later in life, even in circumstances where a person has already tested positive for a strain of HPV
- HPV vaccination is recommended through age 26 and can be considered up to age 45
Know the Risk Factors
In addition to HPV, other factors may increase your risk of cervical cancer:
-
- Multiple partners (especially if partners did not receive the HPV vaccination)
- Smoking
- Weakened immune system (e.g., HIV, chronic immunosuppression due to autoimmune conditions, etc.)
- Talk with your provider to determine your risk and build a prevention plan that meets your needs
Cervical Cancer Resources
About Alison Cowan, MD
Obstetrics & Gynecology
Boulder Medical Center – Louisville, Colorado
Dr. Alison Cowan is a board-certified OB-GYN who provides expert care for women in Louisville, Boulder County, and beyond. She specializes in evidence-based treatment, minimally invasive procedures, and preventive care, including cervical cancer screening. Previously, Dr. Cowan was medical director for the diagnostics division at Hologic, a leader in Pap test technology, an experience that supports her focus on early detection and women’s health.
She is dedicated to helping patients feel heard, respected, and empowered in their health decisions.
Resources
-
- Get to know Dr. Alison Cowan
- Call (303) 665-1045 for an appointment