Medical Reference related to cervical cancer

1. Cervical cancer diagnosis and screening
   

   Learn about screening for and diagnosis of cervical cancer, including the importance of smear tests.

2. Cervical cancer causes
   

   We give an overview of the causes of cervical cancer and risk factors, such as taking the Pill and smoking.

3. Outlook and support for cervical cancer
   

   It’s very important to catch cervical cancer early. Read about the outlook for cervical cancer and the support you can get.

4. Cervical cancer prevention
   

   We explain how the key to preventing invasive cervical cancer is to detect any cell changes early, before they become cancerous.

5. Cervical cancer treatment
   

   Cervical cancer treatment is aimed at preventing cancerous cells from developing further and spreading. We look at the options.

6. Understanding cervical cancer - symptoms
   

   A look at the symptoms of cervical cancer.

7. Cervical cancer key messages
   

   Cervical cancer is cancer of the cervix.  The cervix connects a woman's womb and her vagina.  It is also known as the neck of the wombCervical cancer can affect women of all ages but is most common in women between 30 - 45 years of age.  It is very rare in women under 25Cervical screening -  previously known as a smear test - can prevent cervical cancer and saves thousands of lives each yearIn the future, most cervical cancers will be prevented by HPV vaccination. But for the next few decades, cervical screening will still be vitally importantThe earlier cervical cancer is diagnosed, the better the outcome will be, so it is important to know the signs and symptoms

8. How the HPV vaccine is given
   

   The human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine is given on its own and is not combined with other vaccines. If your child is 12 to 13 years old, you will usually receive information about the vaccination schedule and a consent form before your child has the HPV vaccine. If your child is older, they may be able to consent or refuse the vaccination themselves, so you may not receive a consent form.

9. Side effects of HPV vaccination
   

   Following clinical trials, the vaccine used in the UK human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccination programme (Cervarix) was shown to cause side effects in some people.Immediately after having the injection, you may experience a stinging sensation or slight pain that lasts for a short time. Other side effects may take longer to appear.

10. Introduction
    

    Since September 2008 there has been a national programme to vaccinate girls aged 12 to 13 against the human papilloma virus (HPV). This age-group is usually in year 8 at schools in England.From September 2008 a three-year catch-up campaign was started, to offer the HPV vaccine, also known as the cervical cancer jab, to older girls aged 14-17. Most primary care trusts are aiming to complete the catch-up programme within two years.The programme is delivered largely through secondary schools and consists of three injections that should ideally be given over a period of six months, although they can all be given over a period of 12 months.In the UK, from September 2008 to July 2010, at least four million doses of Cervarix (the HPV vaccine used in the UK programme) were given.