Ways to prevent or lower the risk of cervical cancer
The best way to prevent cervical cancer is to get the HPV vaccine. The CDC estimates that HPV vaccination can help prevent over 90 percent of cancers caused by HPV. The CDC recommends the HPV vaccine for people that are:
- Males and females the aged 11 to 12
- Teens and young adults through age 26 years who have not been vaccinated or have not completed the vaccine.
- Adults between the ages of 27 and 45 years after discussing the risks with a doctor.
Other preventive measures include:
- Having regular screening
- Having regular STI screening
- Using a condom or other barriers method during sex
- Eating a nutrient-dense diet
- Quitting smoking