January marks Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, prompting health experts to remind women about the importance of routine Pap smears and HPV testing. According to Nicole Dreibelbis with UPMC Gynecology Oncology, the HPV virus causes 99% of cervical cancers. It takes an average of 10-15 years for the virus to develop into cancer.
The key issue is that early cervical cancer often lacks noticeable symptoms, leaving many women unaware until it reaches a more advanced stage. Regular Pap smears and screenings can help identify potential issues before they become severe.
Women between ages 35-44 are at highest risk of developing cervical cancer.
Source: https://www.abc27.com/news/health-experts-remind-women-to-be-tested-for-hpv