Cervical Cancer Awareness: Why Every Woman Should Get Screened

Understanding Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when detected early. Despite this, it remains the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide. The key to protection? Regular cervical cancer screening and the HPV vaccine.

At Share and Care Medical Center – Dubai Silicon Oasis, we believe in empowering women with knowledge about their health. If you’re wondering how often you should get a Pap smear or where to find an affordable cervical screening in Dubai, keep reading!

What is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer develops in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It progresses slowly, often starting with precancerous changes that can be detected early through a Pap smear test.

What causes cervical cancer?

The primary cause of cervical cancer is persistent infection with high-risk HPV strains. Other risk factors include:

✅ Multiple sexual partners
✅ Smoking
✅ Weakened immune system (e.g., HIV-positive individuals)
✅ Long-term use of hormonal contraceptives
✅ Multiple pregnancies

How Can You Prevent Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, thanks to vaccination and regular screening. Here’s how you can protect yourself:

Get the HPV Vaccine

The HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing infections from the high-risk HPV strains that cause most cervical cancers. The best age to get vaccinated is between 9-14 years, but even adults up to age 45 can still benefit from it.

Regular Cervical Cancer Screening

Even if you have received the HPV vaccine, it’s still crucial to get regular cervical cancer screening in Dubai to detect any abnormal cervical cell changes early.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Quit smoking – Smoking is linked to an increased risk of cervical cancer.
Practice safe sex – Using condoms can help reduce the risk of HPV transmission.
Eat a healthy diet – Nutrient-rich foods can strengthen your immune system.

What is a Pap Smear Test and Why is it Important?

A Pap smear test is a quick, painless, and effective procedure that collects cervical cells to detect precancerous or abnormal changes. If caught early, these changes can be treated before they develop into cancer.
According to the American Cancer Society, here’s how often women should get a cervical screening in Dubai:

✔ Ages 21-29: Pap smear every 3 years
✔ Ages 30-65:

Pap smear every 3 years OR
HPV test every 5 years OR
Co-testing (Pap + HPV test) every 5 years

Who Needs More Frequent Pap Smear Tests?

Certain women may need more frequent screening, including those who:

Are HIV-positive
Have a weakened immune system
Had abnormal Pap results in the past

Is the Pap Smear Test Painful?

Many women worry about the Pap test experience, but it’s completely painless!

✅ Quick (Less than 5 minutes!)
✅ No anesthesia required
✅ Mild discomfort at most
✅ Results in 2-3 days

A Pap smear test is performed in a clinic by a specialist gynecologist in Dubai. The procedure involves:

Procedure

You’ll lie down while a small speculum is inserted to gently open the vagina.

Sample Collection

A small spatula or brush is used to collect cervical cells for examination. The procedure is done at any trusted medical center for women’s health in Dubai.

Lab Test and Report

The sample is sent to a laboratory for testing.
Results are usually available in 2-3 days.

Where to Get a Pap Smear Test in Dubai?

If you’re looking for the best gynecologist consultation in Dubai for cervical screening, visit Share and Care Medical Center – Dubai Silicon Oasis.
Our medical center offers: