Cervical cancer occurs when abnormal cells on the cervix grow out of control. This results in an excessive accumulation of cells which eventually form a lump - a tumor. Cervical cancer can often be successfully treated when it’s found early. It is the third most common cancer among Malaysian women.
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Most women diagnosed with cervical cancer are those who screens irregularly or have never been screened for it. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the main cause of cervical cancer. It is known to cause cell changes in the cervix and may lead to the development of cervical cancer.
How to prevent cervical cancer:
Cervical cancer can be prevented by undergoing regular screening through co-testing of Liquid Based-Cytology (LBC) and HPV DNA Genotyping Test.
HPV DNA Test |
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- HPV DNA Test is a test to detect and determine the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) strain which is the main cause of cervical cancer.
- The test enables early detection of cervical cancer
by detecting the presence of HPV even before cell changes in the cervix have occurre
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Liquid Based Cytology (LBC) |
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- Liquid-Based Cytology (LBC) is the new cervical cell collection technique developed from the
conventional method, the Pap smear.
- LBC screens for cell changes or the presence
of abnormal or pre-cancerous cells that can be effectively treated to prevent cervical cancer
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The Advantages of Combined LBC + HPV DNA Test:
• Better detection
Co-testing increased the detection of cervical cancer
• Better management
If tested positive for HPV but LBC indicates no cell changes, condition can be closely monitored.
• Cost effective
Co-testing using the combination of cytology plus HPV DNA testing is the appropriate screening for women >30 years old. If tested negative for both tests, the screening interval is no sooner than 3 years
subsequently. (NCCN Guidelines Version 1.2011 Cervical Cancer Screening) |
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ):
1. What are the risk factors for cervical cancer?
- Sexually active
- Early onset of sexual activities
- Multiple sex partner
- Sexually transmitted disease
2. I have been vaccinated with HPV vacine. Do i still need to go for screening?
- Yes. Commercially available vaccine only provides 70% protection against the high-risk HPV that
can cause cervical cancer.
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Find out more about other tests in this category:
• Ovarian Cancer Screening
• Breast Cancer Screening
• FemCheck
Malaysia
