Cervical Cancer

Found in the lower part of the uterus or womb, cervical cancer begins in the lining of the cervix. Even though not all risk factors such as age and race can be controlled, steps can be taken to prevent this disease.

Become aware of HPV (human papilloma virus)

HPV is a sexually transmitted disease, which can contribute to the risk of cervical cancer. There is now an FDA-approved vaccination, administered in three doses within a year, to prevent the onset of HPV. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends routine vaccination against HPV for girls 11 to 12 years old.  Doctors may start the vaccination series in girls as young as 9 years old, and can give a catch-up vaccination to 13 to 26 years olds who have not been vaccinated previously or who have not completed the full three shot vaccine series.  

Annual Pap tests

Scheduling your annual Pap smear can detect changes in your cervix that may represent early cancer and allow detection of HPV. Annual Pap smears should begin as soon as you become sexually active and no late than the age of 21. Annual Pap smears should continue even after HPV vaccination

Cervical cancer screenings

Early detection is the best treatment.

Avoid additional risk factors

Eliminating smoking can cut your risk in half and increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables also lowers the risk of developing cancer. Also be sure to discuss the pros and cons of birth control pills with your doctor.

You can take these and other measures towards prevention of this disease.

TRICARE benefit information

TRICARE covers pelvic examinations in conjunction with Pap smear testing when necessary, or annually beginning at age 18 (or younger, if sexually active), until three consecutive normal Pap smears and then once every three years unless otherwise recommended by the physician.

TRICARE also covers a three-dose schedule of the HPV vaccine in girls as young as 9 years old and catch-up vaccinations in 13 to 26 year-old females who have not been vaccinated previously or who have not completed the full vaccination series.

Additional resources

American Cancer Society

National Cervical Cancer Coalition

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