Guest Author - A. Maria Hester, M.D.
A vaccine that can prevent cervical cancer has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. This vaccine, called Gardasil, is actually a vaccine against HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) a sexually transmitted virus that causes cervical cancer. Gardasil was designed to prevent 2 subgroups of HPV, namely types 16 and 18. These two subtypes are believed to be responsible for close to 70% of cases of cervical cancer. It also protects again some subtypes of HPV which cause visible genital warts.
The vaccine is given in the upper arm in a series of 3 injections over a 6-month period with an estimated cost of approximately $120 per dose, or a total of $360 for the whole series. Gardasil is approved for use in females between the ages of 9 and 26. It is important to note, however, that this vaccine does not work in women who have already been infected with HPV.
This is a landmark drug that hopefully will save many thousands of lives. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that each year over 6 million Americans become infected with HPV and over half of all sexually active women (and men) become infected with HPV at some point in their lives. Fortunately, the vast majority of those infected with HPV do NOT develop cervical cancer.
Nevertheless, the American Cancer Society estimates that in 2006 alone there will be close to 10,000 new cases of invasive (advanced) cervical cancer and close to 4,000 women will die as a result. While cervical cancer used to be a very common cause of cancer death, the death rate from this disease has declined significantly over the years thanks to the use of the Pap test which detects cervical cancer in its early stages when it is still very curable.
Other risk factors for cervical cancer
Smoking
HIV infection
Chlamydia infection
A diet low in fruits and vegetables
Being overweight
Long-term use of birth control pills (over 5 years according to some studies)
Having multiple pregnancies
Prior exposures to DES
Having a mother or sister with cervical cancer
How often should I get a Pap test?
The American Cancer Society recommends that ladies begin having Pap tests done approximately 3 years after they first begin having sexual intercourse, but they should begin testing no later than age 21. Pap screening should be done yearly if your doctor uses the standard Pap test and every other year if she uses the newer liquid-based Pap test. However, once you reach the age of 30 your doctor may recommend that you have a Pap test every 2 or 3 years as long as you have had 3 consecutive years of normal results. Alternatively, she may recommend having a Pap test every 3 years and also having a DNA test for HPV. Still other women need a more frequent schedule, based on their overall risk of developing this disease. Speak with your doctor to find out what is best for you.
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