According to the World Health Organization, cervical cancer is the fourth most common type of cancer for women worldwide, but because it tends to develop slowly over time, it also is one of the most preventable types of cancer. Most cervical cancers can be detected in their precancerous stage during a Pap test and are successfully treated before developing further. The good news is that deaths from cervical cancer continue to decline by approximately 2% a year, according to the National Cervical Cancer Coalition. This decline is primarily due to the widespread use of the Pap test to detect cervical abnormalities and allow for early treatment.

Pap Test

A Pap test, also known as a Pap smear, involves using a minimally invasive tool to collect cells from your cervix through the vagina. In women over the age of 30 this can be combined with a test for human papillomavirus, known as the HPV/Pap cotest. The human papillomavirus is the most common risk factor to developing cervical cancer, so it is good to know your status.

Insurance

Prevention and screening services are typically covered by most insurance plans. Please check to confirm your specific benefits before scheduling your appointment.

Family History

If you have a family history of any type of cancer, be sure to tell your doctor or nurse. If any of your parents, siblings or children have had cancer, you may need to be screened earlier and more often. Your doctor will talk with you about your risk factors.

We’re here to help

Screening and early detection help us treat cancer at its earliest stages. If you are diagnosed with cancer, our compassionate team at Orlando Health Cancer Institute will talk through your diagnosis, answer your questions and work with you to come up with the best treatment plan.

Screening tests are not available for every type of cancer, but our Research and Clinical Trials Program investigates new methods of detection and early diagnosis, along with state-of-the-art treatment options. For more information, visit our clinical trials.