There are steps someone can take to help reduce the risk of cervical cancer. However, it may not be possible to prevent the condition.

The main cause of cervical cancer is long-lasting human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. The HPV vaccine can help protect against the virus.

HPV tests and Pap smears may also help reduce the likelihood of cervical cancer or help detect it early.

Read on to learn more about whether it is possible to prevent cervical cancer and how to reduce the risk.

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Cervical cancer is highly preventable because of the HPV vaccine, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI). It is also highly curable if someone receives treatment early.

According to a 2018 study, Pap smears can also help prevent cervical cancer. The study found that, from 1976 to 2009, cervical cancer incidences reduced by between 105,000 and 492,000 cases.

The study also noted that, during the same period, the number of early stage cervical cancer cases reduced from 9.8 per 100,000 women to 4.9 per 100,000 women.

The HPV vaccine helps protect against HPV. HPV infection is the most common cause of cervical cancer.

The HPV vaccine does not treat the virus but offers protection against the HPV infections that may lead to cervical cancer.

Medical professionals recommend the HPV vaccine for children ages 11 to 12 years. However, a person may receive the vaccine from the age of 9.

If a person does not receive the vaccine as a child, then medical professionals may recommend undergoing vaccination by the age of 26. In some cases, a person may receive the vaccine after this age.

Individuals need to speak with a doctor if they have not received vaccination against HPV or are unsure if they have had the vaccine.

Even if a person has had the HPV vaccine, regular screenings with the Pap smear and HIV test are important.

Learn more about getting the HPV vaccine.

A Pap smear, also called a cervical cytology of Pap test, involves collecting a sample of cells from the cervix and sending them to a laboratory to test for:

  • precancerous cells
  • cancerous cells
  • any other cell changes that may lead to cancer without treatment

A person usually has their first Pap smear around the age of 21 and needs to undergo this test at least every 3 years. When individuals reach 65 years of age, they ask a doctor whether they need to continue regular testing.

Learn more about getting a Pap smear.

The HPV test is a screening test for cervical cancer that looks for the HPV virus. It involves using a swab to collect cells from the cervix and sending them to a laboratory for testing.

In general, medical professionals recommend getting an HPV test every 5 years for people ages 30 to 65 years old. They may also recommend a Pap smear alongside the HPV test.

However, some guidance advises getting an HPV test from the age of 25. A person can talk with their doctor about when they recommend getting their first HPV test.

As HPV typically spreads through sexual contact, using condoms when having sex with a partner or using sex toys can help reduce the risk of the virus spreading.

However, it is important to note that condoms do not cover all of the skin. This means that this method does not completely prevent the risk.

Smoking affects the immune system. Having a weakened immune system means that a person may be more likely to develop cervical cancer.

The United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) also suggests that the chemicals in cigarettes may increase the likelihood of cervical cancer.

Quitting or avoiding smoking may help prevent cervical cancer. A person can speak with a doctor if they discuss methods that may help them quit smoking.

Consuming foods that are high in antioxidants may help protect against cancer.

A 2020 study suggests that vitamin A, vitamin D, and carotenoids may help prevent cervical cancer. Folate may help reduce the risk of HPV infection developing into cervical cancer.

However, the study also notes that more research is necessary to gain a better understanding of the possible role of antioxidants in protecting against cervical cancer.

According to the Moffitt Cancer Center, some research suggests that getting at least 30 minutes of exercise or physical activity per week may help prevent cervical cancer.

However, more research is necessary.

What is the main cause of cervical cancer?

HPV is the main cause of cervical cancer. According to the NCI, high risk subtypes HPV 16 and HPV 18 cause 70% of cervical cancer cases worldwide.

Can cervical cancer be cured completely?

According to the NCI, cervical cancer is highly curable if a person receives a diagnosis and begins treatment early. A person’s doctor can advise on what treatments they recommend and whether they believe these approaches are likely to cure the condition.

Learn more about curing cervical cancer.

The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine can help prevent cervical cancer. Most cases of cervical cancer develop due to long-term HPV infection.

Some research also suggests that the Pap smear can also significantly reduce the likelihood of cervical cancer. A person should have a Pap smear every 3 years from the age of 21, though some health experts recommend females between 30 and 65 undergo Pap smears in combination with HPV tests every 5 years.

The HPV test can also help prevent cancer. Medical professionals recommend HPV testing between the ages of 30 and 65 years, often alongside the Pap smear.

Other steps that may help prevent cervical cancer include using condoms, quitting smoking, consuming foods high in antioxidants, and getting enough physical activity or exercise.

A person can talk with their doctor about HPV screening tests and other ways to help prevent cervical cancer.