Although cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of death among women in Thailand, it can be easily prevented through regular screening and vaccination.
Causes of Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women, after breast cancer, and is most frequently found in women aged 35 to 60. Nearly all cases are caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is primarily transmitted through sexual contact. Women who have been sexually active have up to a 70% chance of contracting HPV. However, cervical cancer is highly treatable and curable if detected early through proper screening.
Screening for Cervical Cancer
Screening can be conducted through:
- Thin Prep Pap Smear: This test is used to detect abnormal cells.
- HPV Test: Directly detects HPV infection and is currently the most effective screening test available.
Regular cervical cancer screening can help detect the condition before it progresses to cancer or in its early stages when it is most treatable. Both pre-cancerous changes and early-stage cervical cancer can be effectively treated. Unfortunately, many women do not undergo regular screenings, missing the chance for early detection. All women aged 21 and above or those who are sexually active should have cervical cancer screening at least once a year. If a high-risk HPV infection is found, follow-up screenings every 6 months may be recommended by the physician. Vaccination is also an effective preventive measure to reduce the risk of cervical cancer.
Building A, 3rd floor
