Cervical cancer preliminary screening includes a thorough DNA test for the detection of HPV, specifically targeting the 14 high-risk strains. Notably, these strains encompass HPV 16, 18, and 12 other types, collectively responsible for nearly 99% of cervical cancer cases in women.
What is HPV, and why is its detection important ?
HPV, or Human Papillomavirus, is the virus responsible for HPV infection. It is highly contagious and can be transmitted through direct contact or sexual activity. HPV is linked to various types of cancer, including cervical, vaginal, vulvar, penile, and anal cancer. While there are more than 150 strains of HPV, strains 16 and 18 are particularly concerning for women, as they account for up to 70% of cervical cancers. The primary cause of HPV infection is through sexual contact, whether it’s vaginal, anal, or oral sex, or the use of sexual devices to satisfy sexual desires. It can also be transmitted through open wounds or mucous membranes. If there is contact with the skin or contaminated objects from an infected person, transmission can also occur.
How effective is direct and comprehensive HPV testing ?
Presently, there exists a direct HPV detection method known as deep DNA testing. This advanced technique, based on Real-time PCR, is a molecular test capable of identifying HPV infections in their precancerous stages, thus enabling the prevention and treatment of HPV before it progresses into cervical cancer. This test stands out due to its ability to detect up to 14 strains of Human Papillomavirus (HPV), including high-risk types linked to cervical cancer, with strains 16 and 18 being the most prevalent. These two strains are responsible for approximately 74% of cervical cancer cases in Thai women and 70% of cases globally.Early detection empowers individuals to proactively assess their health status, devise a personalized care plan, and maintain regular check-ups with healthcare providers. Initially, doctors will closely monitor patients and gradually extend follow-up intervals to ensure that, if HPV is detected, cancer does not develop.
Furthermore, this testing can be conducted as a preliminary check before HPV vaccination. The cervical cancer vaccine provides immunity against HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18. So, if HPV is detected before vaccination and a person hasn’t been previously exposed to it, they can gain the maximum benefit from the vaccination. However, if someone has had multiple sexual partners or previous HPV exposure, the effectiveness of the vaccine may be compromised.
Enhancing accuracy to further reduce the risk of cervical cancer.
HPV testing is strongly recommended in combination with either the Pap Smear or Thin Prep Pap because this combined approach offers nearly 100% sensitivity in detecting cervical cancer, compared to relying on the Pap Smear or Thin Prep Pap alone. Co-testing significantly enhances the accuracy of cervical cancer screening. Detecting the condition early allows for timely treatment planning, thereby reducing the risk of cervical cancer. The frequency of follow-up screenings depends on factors like age and medical history.
Who is at risk for cervical cancer ?
- Women who marry at a young age may be at higher risk.
- Women who have multiple births may face an elevated risk.
- Those who have multiple sex partners, especially in cases of frequent venereal diseases, can elevate the risk.
- Those who have a family history, such as a female relative with cervical cancer, can increase the risk.
Cervical cancer, often preventable and manageable, allows for reduced risks when prioritizing good health and disease prevention. To safeguard one’s well-being, it is advised that all women maintain good hygiene practices, engage in safe sexual practices, conduct regular self-examinations, and schedule annual gynecological check-ups for internal examinations and screenings.
