Highlights
Vaccines to Prevent Cervical Cancer
- An experimental vaccine called Gardasil provides 100% protection against the most deadly types of human papilloma virus (HPV), according to study results released in 2005. Gardasil protects women against HPV 16 and 18, the HPV strains that cause 70% of all cervical cancer cases. The vaccine also prevents infection from HPV strains that cause genital warts. Gardasil is awaiting approval by the FDA.
- Another investigational cervical cancer vaccine, Cervarix, has been shown to protect against HPV 16 and 18, as well as some other types of cancer-causing human papilloma viruses. It does not, however, protect against genital warts.
Risk Factors
- Smoking can increase the risk of developing cervical cancer. Secondhand smoke may also raise the risk. According to a 2005 study, women who live with smokers are 40% more likely to develop cervical cancer than women who are not exposed to household cigarette smoke.
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Talk to Your Doctor About HPV
According to a 2005 survey released by the American Association of Reproductive Health Professionals, women and their doctors are not communicating very well about cervical cancer and its risks. The survey results revealed that:
- Only 17% of women realize that cervical cancer is the most preventable type of cancer.
- Only 23% of women correctly identify HPV as the leading cause of cervical cancer.
- Nearly half of women (over age 30) have heard of HPV, but only 18% have discussed it with their doctors. Women between ages 35 and 55 have the highest risk for HPV infections and cervical cancer.
- Older women need to discuss HPV testing with their doctors. Some women over age 30 may benefit from a liquid-based Pap test combined with an HPV DNA test.
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