Regular Cervical Screening: The Key to Protecting Women’s Health
Introduction to Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is a common cancer among women in Hong Kong. Most cervical cancers are caused by persistent infection with high-risk (or high-risk types) human papillomavirus (also known as HPV).
HPV infection generally occurs in individuals who have had sexual activity. Most people with HPV infection have no symptoms and may clear the virus on their own. However, some women with persistent infection of high-risk HPV types may lead to changes in cervical cells, even developing into cancer.
Important Reminder: Women aged 25-64 who have had sexual experience should undergo regular cervical screening, which is an effective method to prevent cervical cancer.
Risk Factors for HPV Infection or Cervical Cancer
Here are the common risk factors:
- Having multiple sexual partners
- Starting sexual activity at an early age
- Concurrent sexually transmitted infections
- Smoking
- Weakened immune system
- Persistent infection with high-risk HPV types
- Multiple pregnancies or young age at first pregnancy
Smoking increases the risk of cervical cancer; please avoid it as much as possible.
Methods to Prevent Cervical Cancer
Regular cervical screening is a proven effective prevention method. Cervical screening is a quick and simple test that can detect abnormal cells early.
Cancer Prevention and Screening Expert Working Group Recommendations:
- Ages 25 to 29 Women who have had sexual experience, if two consecutive annual cervical cytology tests are normal, can then screen every three years.
- Ages 30 to 64 Women who have had sexual experience should follow one of the following screening options: (i) If two consecutive annual cervical cytology tests are normal, then every three years thereafter; or (ii) HPV testing every five years; or (iii) Co-testing with HPV and cervical cytology every five years.
- Ages 65 and above Women who have had sexual experience: ► If routine screenings in the past 10 years have all been normal, screening can be stopped. ► If never screened before, should undergo screening.
Women aged 25 to 64 who have had sexual experience should all undergo regular cervical screening. Do not smoke to reduce risk.
