It’s a good question. The answer: women just like you. Women of all ages. Women from all fifty states and from all ethnic and economic backgrounds get Cervical Cancer. Women who are single and dating, and those who are married with kids. Cervical Cancer doesn’t discriminate, which is why it’s so important for all of us to understand the risks and do what we can to protect ourselves. Because the truth is, if you’re a woman, you may be at risk of developing Cervical Cancer.
 
Cervical Cancer is not hereditary; nearly every woman is at risk.  And, Cervical Cancer is the third most common gynecological cancer in the U.S. Think about it: thirty-one American women will be diagnosed with Cervical Cancer today and every day this year. And, while no one likes to think about things like Cervical Cancer, the more you know about it, the more prepared you may be to help prevent it.
 
Get the Real Deal on the Risks
Consider this: while cervical cancer is treatable, particularly if it is caught early, it can lead to infertility. So it's important to protect yourself and those you care about. What can you do?  Take time to learn more about your body, the risk factors associated with Cervical Cancer and ways to protect yourself.
 
Take Action to Protect Yourself
Many of the risk factors for Cervical Cancer are within your control and can be avoided with lifestyle changes.  Additionally, you should know that Cervical Cancer is one of the easiest female cancers to prevent through regular screening. Early detection of precancers or early cervical cancer may prevent progression to more serious conditions. This should encourage you to make sure that you receive necessary tests and to take additional steps to help protect yourself. 
 
Here are some tips to help guide you:

	The Test We Love to Hate — Nobody enjoys having a pap test, but it may protect you against fertility issues in the future and even save your life. A pap test checks for changes in the cells of your cervix and can help your doctor determine if you have a problem by looking for abnormal (unhealthy) cervical cells or Cervical Cancer.  It’s important for all women to have a pap test and a pelvic exam as part of their routine healthcare. FACT: About half of the women in the U.S. who develop Cervical Cancer have never had a pap test.
	Be a Busybody — Finding out as much as you can about your body and possible health issues will help you take control of your health and feel more empowered. Take advantage of all available resources, like the Cervical Cancer Facts Web site, and schedule regular appointments with your ob/gyn.

What’s Next?
Cervical Cancer can be prevented. By using the information provided in this article, continuing to find out more about Cervical Cancer and taking steps to protect yourself, you may feel more confident knowing that you’re playing an active role in your own healthcare. Don’t forget to schedule regular appointments with your ob/gyn and talk with him or her about any questions you may have concerning your pap test, the risks for Cervical Cancer and what more you can be doing to protect yourself. Remember, your doctor is your partner, and you shouldn’t be embarrassed or shy about talking openly with him or her.