Cervical Cancer: Risk Factors and Screening

January 13, 2025

Did you know that January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month? More than 90% of cervical cancers are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Over 65% of sexually active women are infected with HPV at some point in their lives. Fortunately, with awareness and screening, you (or your spouse) can lower your risk of developing cervical and other gynecologic cancers.

Risk Factors

Factors that can put you at higher risk for cervical cancer include:

– Having HPV
– Having a close blood relative with cervical cancer
– Having many sexual partners
– Giving birth to 3 or more children
– Smoking cigarettes
– Being infected with HIV

Screening and Reducing Your Risk for Cervical Cancer

There are several measures you can take to lower your risk of developing cervical cancer:

Get Vaccinated

The HPV vaccine is a shot administered to your arm and can protect you from the nine most common types of HPV. Everyone ages 9-45 can receive the vaccine, and you can get the vaccine even if you’ve previously tested positive for HPV.

Schedule Regular Pap Tests (Pap Smears)

Pap tests, also called Pap smears, are tests used to screen for abnormal cells (precancer) in your cervix, and other signs of cervical cancer.

Schedule an HPV Test

An HPV test looks for high-risk types of HPV in cervical cells. The test is administered similarly to a Pap smear.

Click the image below to read Memorial Sloan Kettering’s (“MSK”) Guide to Cervical Cancer Screening:

To learn more about gynecologic cancers, click on the digital brochures at the end of this article, and visit https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/types/cervical

The NYCDCC Welfare Fund partners with Memorial Sloan Kettering to offer MSK Direct, a program that gives you guided access to expert cancer care. They provide resources and support throughout your care experience. To learn more screenings, as well as other cancer care related topics, visit the MSK Direct website for the NYCDCC Welfare Fund at www.mskcc.org/nycdcc. If you or a loved one are impacted by cancer and would like to discuss treatment options available at MSK, please call the dedicated MSK Direct phone line for the NYCDCC Welfare Fund at (833) 786-3368.