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European Code Against Cancer
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Questions & Answers

  • Tobacco
  • Second-hand smoke
  • Healthy body weight
  • Physical activity
  • Diet
  • Alcohol
  • Sun/UV exposure
  • Pollutants
  • Radiation
  • Breastfeeding
  • Hormonal therapy
  • Vaccination and infections
  • Screening
  • Others
  • Pharmaceutical drugs

What will happen if I have an abnormal screening result?

About 3–10 out of 100 participating women have an abnormal cervical cancer screening result, so it is not unusual. You will be asked to go back for more tests; these may include repeating the screening test and possibly a gynaecological examination and tissue sampling. It can be worrying to have an abnormal screening result, but treatment of precancerous lesions, if necessary, is simple and almost completely effective in preventing cervical cancer.
  • What is cervical cancer?
  • What is cervical cancer screening?
  • When should I participate in cervical cancer screening?
  • My last screening test result was normal; why should I undergo screening again?
  • What is the chance of a cervical cancer not being found at screening?
  • Can I develop cervical cancer after a negative screening examination?
  • What will happen if I have an abnormal screening result?
  • I have been vaccinated against human papillomavirus (HPV); should I still participate in cervical cancer screening?
  • Is there any harm or other risk from cervical cancer screening?

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