How to Prevent the Occurrence of Cervical Cancer Through Screening

Generally, cervical cancer can be prevented through screening methods such as cervical cytology, human papillomavirus (HPV) testing, colposcopy, cervical biopsy, and liquid-based thin-layer cytology. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Cervical Cytology

Cervical cytology involves collecting cells from the cervix surface and cervical canal, making smears, and observing cellular morphology under a microscope. If abnormal cells, such as enlarged nuclei or imbalanced nucleus-to-cytoplasm ratios, are detected, this may suggest precancerous lesions or cancerous cells. This test enables early detection of abnormal cervical cell changes, allowing timely intervention to prevent progression to cervical cancer.

2. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Testing

Persistent infection with high-risk HPV types is the primary cause of cervical cancer. HPV testing identifies whether an HPV infection exists and determines the specific HPV type involved. If high-risk HPV types, especially types 16 and 18, are detected, further evaluation of cervical lesion risk is necessary to identify hidden precancerous lesions early and implement appropriate treatment measures.

3. Colposcopy

When cervical cytology or HPV testing yields abnormal results, colposcopy is required. During colposcopy, a colposcope is inserted into the vagina to magnify and examine the cervix, assessing the morphology of cervical surface blood vessels and epithelium. If suspicious lesions are identified, tissue samples can be collected under direct vision for histopathological examination, helping confirm the presence of precancerous lesions or cervical cancer and providing a basis for subsequent treatment.

4. Cervical Biopsy

Under colposcopic guidance, tissue samples are taken from suspicious cervical lesions for histopathological examination. Histopathology is the gold standard for diagnosing cervical cancer and precancerous lesions, accurately determining the nature and severity of the lesion, confirming whether it is cancerous, and identifying the specific cancer type, which is crucial for developing an appropriate treatment plan.

5. Liquid-Based Thin-Layer Cytology

Liquid-based thin-layer cytology also involves collecting cervical cells; however, this method uses liquid-based thin-layer technology to process the sample, resulting in a more uniform cell distribution and improved detection rates of abnormal cells. This technique enables more accurate identification of subtle cervical cell changes, facilitating early detection of precancerous cervical lesions and providing more time for cervical cancer prevention.

In daily life, maintaining external genital hygiene and avoiding excessive vaginal douching is important to preserve normal vaginal flora balance. Additionally, reducing the number of sexual partners and using condoms during sexual intercourse can help lower the risk of HPV infection.