Cervical cancer is the world’s most preventable yet most fatal women’s cancer. With all the vaccine and campaign efforts, thousands of women are still being diagnosed annually. One of the primary reasons for cervical cancer is the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) — a sexually transmitted disease which may go unnoticed sometimes. At Dr. Avhad Hospital, we strongly believe in early Pap smear as a first step in prevention and early detection.
Understanding HPV and How It Applies to Cervical Cancer
HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a sexually transmitted infection that is widespread. All sexually active people will develop at least one of the types of HPV at some point in their lifetime. Most are benign and will spontaneously clear, but a few of the high-risk types (namely HPV 16 and 18) can cause cervical dysplasia—a precancerous lesion—and will develop into cervical cancer if not treated.
Cervical cancer usually develops silently, symptomless, until the advanced stages. So, it is extremely important to get screened regularly for timely treatment.
What Is a Pap Smear and Why Is It Important?
A Pap test, or Pap smear, is a quick test to check cervical cells to check for abnormal changes. It finds changes that are cancerous or precancerous. If repeated over time, it provides an opportunity to cure early, even before cancer forms.
Regardless of the HPV vaccination age, Pap smears remain inevitable. The vaccine will not give you total immunity against all the types of HPV that lead to cancer. That is why screening remains necessary for all women, regardless of immunization.
How Often Should You Get a Pap Smear?
At Dr. Avhad Hospital, we adhere to the standard practice:
- Women aged 21 to 29 years: Every 3 years
- Women 30–65 years: Every 3–5 years, depending on whether the HPV test is included as part of the Pap smear
- Women over 65 years: Can discontinue screening if they've had consistently normal test results
Your physician may advise more frequent screening if you have a history of abnormal Pap test results, a compromised immune system, or other risk factors.
Advantages of Routine Pap Smear Testing
- Prevention of Deaths: Early detection of abnormal cells enables early treatment, avoiding the development of cervical cancer.
- Painless and Fast: The test is painless and only lasts several minutes.
- Less Costly Prevention: Prevention of cancer is less costly—emotionally and financially—than a cure later on.
- Peace of Mind: The routine tests give women peace of mind and enable them to maintain control of their reproductive health.
Conclusion
The HPV vaccine itself is a potent risk reducer for cervical cancer, but it’s no panacea. It doesn’t treat existing infections, nor does it guard against all types of HPV. Ongoing Pap testing is therefore still a vital component of prevention, even for the vaccinated.
Here at Dr. Avhad Hospital, we’re dedicated to the health of women and preventing cancer. Our professional gynecologists give you warm, personalized screening processes. From your first Pap smear to follow-up, we are here every step of the way.
Don’t wait for a sign—cervical cancer is most curable when detected early. Make an appointment for your Pap smear at Dr. Avhad Hospital today and reclaim your life with confidence.
