Preventing Cervical Cancer: New State Policy Opportunities Women In Government is committed to the elimination of cervical cancer, a preventable disease. Cervical cancer is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is so widespread that 80 percent of women will contract some form of it before age 50. Many women do not know the cause of cervical cancer, and that it can go undetected unless a woman receives proper screening. The most important thing women can do to protect themselves is to receive appropriate vaccination (against HPV) and screening.
Cervical cancer is highly preventable – screening and vaccination are key.
Cervical cancer is caused by a common virus – human papillomavirus (or "HPV").
Most women will have HPV, but few will develop cervical cancer.
Only HPV infections that persist can lead to cancer.
Every 2½ hours, a woman dies of cervical cancer in the United States, despite its being the only cancer with a single-known cause – HPV – which makes it virtually 100% preventable.
A Pap test looks for cell changes on the cervix that might lead to cancer.
Using an HPV test in conjunction with a Pap test in women over 30 can better identify women at risk for cancer.
HPV vaccines that prevents 70% of cervical cancers is now available.
