Although cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of death among women in Thailand, preventing it is relatively simple through screening and vaccination.
Causes of Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer after breast cancer and is most frequently found in women between the ages of 35 and 60. Almost 100% of cases are caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a sexually transmitted infection. Women who have had sexual intercourse have a high chance of contracting HPV, up to 70%. However, cervical cancer is a treatable and curable disease if detected early through screening.
Screening for Cervical Cancer
Screening for cervical cancer can be done through:
- (Thin prep Pap smear) : This test looks for abnormal cells.
- Direct detection of HPV infection (HPV test): This is currently the best test available.
Regular screening for cervical cancer can detect the disease before it becomes cancerous or in the early stages when it is highly treatable. Both pre-cancerous conditions and early-stage cancer can be effectively treated. Unfortunately, many women do not undergo regular screenings, resulting in missed opportunities for early detection. All women aged 21 and above or sexually active should undergo cervical cancer screening at least once a year. If a high-risk HPV infection is detected, the physician will schedule follow-up screenings every 6 months. Vaccination is also another option to reduce the risk of cervical cancer.
Building A, 3rd floor
