How to prevent cervical cancer

Screening tests
The risk of developing cervical cancer can be significantly reduced if the following two screening tests are done on a regular basis:

• The Pap test (or Pap smear): This test looks at precancerous cell changes on the cervix that may develop into cervical cancer, if no appropriate treatment is given. You should start getting regular Pap smears from the age of 21. This is the most important step to take to prevent developing cervical cancer.
• The HPV test: This test looks for the virus that is responsible for the changes in cells of the cervix.

Other lifestyle changes

• Avoid genital HPV infection since it is the most important risk factor in cervical cancer and precancers. This means delaying sex, limiting number of sex partners, and avoiding a sex partner who has had several other partners.

Note: Condoms may prevent sexually transmitted diseases but haven't proven effective in preventing HPV infection since the virus can spread through contact of exposed areas.

• Two vaccines, Gardasil and Cervarix, have been approved for use in girls and young women to help prevent the development of cervical cancer.
• Stop smoking because it can compromise your immune system and make you vulnerable to getting common infections.
• Eat a balanced diet to provide the nutrients needed for your body to fight diseases.
• Regular exercise will boost your immune system to fight against common infections.