Transcript A regular Pap test could save your life.

Today’s discussion …
• Cervical cancer in Ontario
• Cervical cancer and its risk factors
• Preventing cervical cancer:
• What is a Pap test?
• How is a Pap test done?
• How often should I have one?
• What do my results mean?
Cervical cancer: 2008 Ontario
• In 2008, 500 Ontario women will be
diagnosed with cervical cancer
• 150 Ontario women will die from it
• Each week:
- about 10 women in Ontario develop
cervical cancer
- about 3 women die from cervical cancer
in Ontario
Source: National Cancer Institute of Canada and Canadian Cancer Society
“Canadian Cancer Statistics 2007”
What is the cervix?
What is cervical cancer?
• An abnormality of the cells lining
the surface of the cervix
• Cervical cells can change
• Changes usually occur slowly,
often over several years
• Early changes may resolve or
they can develop into cancer
Cervical cancer risk factors
• Sexual activity now or in the past
• Sexual activity before age 18
• Smoking
• Multiple sexual partners
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
Cervical cancer can be
prevented by having regular
Pap tests
• Almost all cancers of the cervix can be
stopped when early cell changes are
found and treated
What is a Pap test?
• The Pap test looks at cervical cells
• It can detect changes in these cells
before changes become cancerous
• Not a test for other cancers or STDs
• A screening test not a diagnostic test
How is a Pap test done?
• By a doctor or nurse practitioner
• Speculum: allows doctor or nurse to
see the cervix
• Small spatula and brush used to take
samples of cervical cells
• Internal exam after Pap test
• It’s common to have mild spotting after
the Pap test
Pap tests are
most effective when…
• you do not have your period
• you have not had sex for 24 hours
before the test
• you have not used vaginal foams,
medication or douches for 48 hours
• you ask questions if you have any
How often should I
have a Pap test?
• Every year once you start having sex
(intercourse)
• If your tests are normal for three years
in a row, then you will need a Pap test
every two years - ask your doctor or
nurse about how often you should have
a Pap test
• Have regular tests until at least age 70
How to relax during your
Pap test
• Remember it takes only a few minutes
• Talk to your doctor or nurse about it
...Cont’d.
How to relax during your
Pap test
• Take slow, deep breaths, wiggle your
toes, think restful thoughts or focus on
something else in the room
• If your health care provider is male, a
female assistant may remain in the
room
• Ask a friend or relative to come with you
Common reactions and
feelings about the Pap test
• “I’m afraid the test will hurt.”
• “I’ll be embarrassed.”
• “I’ve never had a Pap test and never
had a problem – I feel great.”
• “I don’t need a Pap test because...
• I’ve finished having children.
• I’m in menopause.
• I don’t have sex any more.”
After your Pap test …
• Your cervical cell sample is carefully
checked for abnormal cells at a lab
• The lab will report results to your health
care provider’s office
• Generally, your health care provider
will call only if there’s a problem
• If your test is normal, you can schedule
your next Pap test in one or two years
What if my test is abnormal?
1. The test may be inconclusive
2. You may have an infection
•
The cells may be abnormal/
pre-cancerous
•
The cells may be cancerous
Treatment for
abnormal cell changes
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Repeat Pap test in 3 to 6 months
Colposcopy
Biopsy
Cryotherapy
Laser therapy
Cone biopsy/conization
LEEP
Surgery, radiation, chemotherapy
Things to remember
1. A Pap test can help prevent cervical
cancer
2. Most results from Pap tests are normal
3. Most abnormal results are easily
treated
...Cont’d.
Things to remember
4. Cervical cancer can take up to 10 years
to develop
5. All women who have ever been sexually
active should have regular Pap tests
6. After three normal tests, Pap tests
should be repeated at least every two
years
...Cont’d.
Things to remember
7. Older women need Pap tests, too
8. A Pap test checks for cervical cancer
only not other cancers or STDs
9. When in doubt, check with your health
care provider
10. If you have a male health care provider,
you can ask to have a woman stay with
you during your Pap test
Take the time to test…
Good health is for life
• Protect yourself
• Avoid tobacco
• Take care …
• … and get regular Pap tests