Cervical Cancer | Louisiana Department of Health
Community Health & Wellness
Cancer
Cervical Cancer
Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is a growth of cells in the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina.
Various strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) play a role in causing most cervical cancers. HPV is a common infection that's passed through sexual contact. When exposed to HPV, the body's immune system typically prevents the virus from doing harm. In a small percentage of people, however, the virus survives for years. This contributes to the process that causes some cervical cells to become cancer cells.
Louisiana is ranked 7
th
in the U.S. for cervical cancer deaths, with approximately 215 new cervical cancer cases diagnosed each year.
Per the CDC, HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States, with various strains that play a role in causing cervical cancer.
About 14 million people, including teens, become infected with HPV each year. Data shows that 4 out of 5 women will contract HPV at some point. Women who have received the HPV vaccine must still understand that they should also maintain regular screenings.
Signs & Symptoms
Vaginal bleeding after intercourse, between periods or after menopause.
Menstrual bleeding that is heavier and lasts longer than usual.
Watery, bloody vaginal discharge that may be heavy and have a foul odor.
Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse.
Risk Factors & Behaviors
Smoking tobacco
Increased number of sexual partners
Early sexual activity
Other sexually transmitted infections - including herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and HIV/AIDS
A weakened immune system
Exposure to miscarriage prevention medicine
Prevention Methods
Ask your doctor about the HPV vaccine
Have routine Pap tests
Practice safe sex
Don't smoke
Cervical cancer is highly preventable.
Establish care with a primary care provider and/or a gynecologist to become aware of necessary screenings. Talking to a doctor to learn more about the risks and benefits of cervical cancer is key. Early screening and testing are associated with improved survival outcomes.
You can reduce your risk of developing cervical cancer by having screening tests and receiving a vaccine that protects against HPV infection
Women should stay up to date on PAP exams and consider receiving the HPV vaccine that protects against HPV infection and reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine is recommended for children to get the best immunological response (girls age 11-26, and boys age 11-21). Talk to your physician to learn if the HPV vaccine can be beneficial to you
Testing
Pap test
HPV DNA test
Punch biopsy
Endocervical curettage
Electrical wire loop
Cone biopsy
Imaging tests
Visual exams of the bladder and rectum
Treatment Options
Cone biopsy
Trachelectomy
Hysterectomy
Radiation therapy
Chemotherapy
Targeted therapy
Immunotherapy
Local Resources
Louisiana Breast & Cervical Health Program (LBCHP)
Louisiana Cancer Prevention and Control Programs
Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center: Cervical Cancer
Louisiana Cancer Research Center
National Resources
National Cancer Institute: Cervical Cancer
American Cancer Society: Cervical Cancer
CDC: Cervical Cancer
Surgeon General
Evelyn Griffin, MD
Secretary
Bruce D. Greenstein
Cicero Government