Cervical cancer is a disease most often caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and can often be prevented with routine PAP screening and HPV testing. A PAP test looks for cells in the cervix that could turn into cancer if not treated. The HPV test checks for HPV infection. Based on your age, you should be screened for cervical cancer every 3-5 years. Ask your PCP what screening is right for you and to see if you need a screening today.

• Adults who have a cervix age 21-29: get a PAP screening every 3 years
• Adults who have a cervix age 30-65: get a PAP screening every 3 years or a PAP test with an HPV test every 5 years.

Sources: National Institutes of Health, nih.gov