The most important risk factor for cervical cancer is infection with HPV (human papilloma virus). HPVs are a group of viruses that are sexually transmitted. Some types cause genital warts and others cause cervical cancer. High risk behavior includes having unprotected sex, especially at a young age; and having multiple sexual partners or having sex with someone who has had multiple partners.

There is also currently no treatment for HPV, but there are treatments for the cell changes in the cervix that HPV can cause. The Pap test was developed to detect these cell changes and pre-cancers. When found and treated early, cervical cancer is one of the most treatable cancers.

The American Cancer Society guidelines for early detection of cervical cancer are:

• All women should begin having the Pap test about three years after they start having sex (vaginal intercourse), but no later than 21 years of age. The test should be done every year if the regular Pap test is used, or every two years if the newer liquid-based Pap test is used. Women who have certain risk factors (HIV infection, weakened immune system) should have a Pap test every year.
• Beginning at age 30, women who have had three normal test results in a row may get the test every two to three years. Another option for women over 30 is to have a Pap test every three years plus the HPV DNA test.
• Women 70 years of age or older who have had three or more normal tests in a row (and no abnormal tests in the last 10 years) may choose to stop having the test. Women who have had cervical cancer or who have other risk factors should continue testing as long as they are in good health.
• Women who have had a total hysterectomy for reasons other than having cancer or a precancerous lesion may choose to stop having the test. Women who have had a simple hysterectomy should continue to follow the guidelines.

There is currently an FDA-approved vaccine on the market that is used to prevent HPV infections, and others will soon be released. The American Cancer Society recommends vaccination for girls when they are 11 or 12, before they begin having sex. Vaccination is also recommended as a "catch up" for women aged 13 to 18. Women between the ages of 19 and 26 should talk to their doctor about whether vaccination is right for them.

For more information about cervical cancer, visit online at www.cancer.org/cervicalcancer.