Risk and prevention of cervical cancer
Information on the risk factors for cervical cancer and what you can do to reduce your risk of developing the disease.
What increases my risk of cervical cancer?
Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by the HPV virus. This is a common virus passed on during sexual contact. Usually it clears up by itself, although this can take up to 18 months.
Smoking increases your risk of abnormal changes (CIN). Chemicals in cigarettes can affect how your cervix fights HPV infection.
Having regular cervical screening tests can help to find out if you're at risk and to spot any changes to cervical cells before they turn cancerous.
Having a risk factor doesn’t mean you will get cancer. Sometimes people with no risk factors get the disease. If you’re worried, talk to your GP or talk to one of our cancer nurses. Call our Support Line on 1800 200 700 or visit a Daffodil Centre.
Reducing your risk of cervical cancer
The most important things you can do to reduce your risk of cervical cancer are:
Most people will get HPV infection in their lifetime. HPV can cause certain cancers. The HPV vaccine can help to prevent these cancers
Read more about what is the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).
We know quitting smoking can be difficult. If you are thinking about quitting or you would like to help a friend or family member to do so , we can help!
Read more about [How can you quit smoking]
Cervical cancer screening is not a test for cancer , it is a test to spot those who are at risk. It could save your life.
Read more about [ Cervical cancer screening ]
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