Answer to Question 1
False
Answer to Question 2
Answers should include at least three of the other factors.
The most significant risk factor for cervical cancer is infection with human papilloma virus (HPV), a group of more than 100 related viruses, some of which can cause cervical cancer. The virus is frequently transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sex; or simply by skin-to-skin contact with a body area infected with HPV.
Most infected women do not develop cervical cancer, because other factors must be present for the cancer to develop. These factors are: tobacco use, infections (HIV or chlamydia), a diet low in fruits and vegetables, being overweight, long-term use of birth control pills, multiple pregnancies or pregnancy prior to age 17, and family history.
Early detection through a Pap test during a pelvic exam should be performed annually in women who are or have been sexually active or who have reached the age of 18. Following three normal tests during three consecutive years, the Pap test may be done less frequently, at the discretion of the physician.
