Cervical Cancer Tip Sheet

The Pap test is the most effective screening procedure for detecting abnormal changes in the cervix which may point to cancer down the road.

And since we know that - where cancer is concerned - early detection is the best protection, regular Pap tests are a must for sexually active women and those over the age of 18.

How long should we continue having an annual Pap test? Well, when you consider the incidence of cancer in women over the age of 65, it’s a good idea to plan on continuing indefinitely: women over 65 have a much higher incidence of cervical cancer than their younger counterparts. Unfortunately, they also have a much higher mortality rate. This is probably due to the fact that 51% of American women over 65 have not had a Pap test in the last 3 years. So they are in danger of missing out on the benefits of early detection and treatment.

Don´t wait! While we may feel embarrassed or nervous by scheduling and having an annual pelvic exam and Pap, we´ll be so much better off in the long run – and feel so much better knowing we´ve done something positive to protect our health.