Dr. Olivia Cardenas-Trowers, a Mayo Clinic urogynecologist, explains the importance of screening for cervical cancer.

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"Cervical cancer is diagnosed with tissue sampling, so like with a biopsy, but abnormal cells can be picked up with a screening exam, like a Pap smear, which can lead to being able to diagnose cervical cancer," says Dr. Cardenas-Trowers.

Screenings are recommended to start at 21 years old, but may start earlier depending on health or risk. Then, depending on age and the type of test, screenings are generally performed every three to five years.

"Early cervical cancer, there aren't really many signs or symptoms. Screening plays a very important role by being able to pick it up early and therefore have treatment and better outcomes," says Dr. Cardenas-Trowers.

If cervical cancer progresses to a later stage, symptoms may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, bleeding after menopause and pain, in general or with intercourse. An HPV infection increases the risk for developing cervical cancer and can be prevented with vaccination.

"There is a vaccine out there that can be given as early as 9 years old and up to 45 years old. (That is) is very important to know, not only for women, but actually for men," says Dr. Cardenas-Trowers.

Related:

• Consumer Health: What is a Pap smear, and who needs one?
• Consumer Health: Understanding cervical cancer risk

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Cervical cancer: Symptoms and causes
January is Cervical Health Awareness Month, which makes this a good time to learn more about cervical cancer. Early-stage cervical cancer generally produces no signs or symptoms. Indications of more advanced cervical cancer include vaginal bleeding after intercourse, between periods or after menopause; watery, bloody vaginal discharge that may be heavy and have a foul odor; and pelvic pain or pain during intercourse. It isn't clear what causes cervical cancer, but it's certain that HPV plays a role, along with environmental factors and lifestyle choices. Learn more about the risk factors for cervical cancer and what you can do to keep yourself healthy.

Sweet's syndrome
Sweet's syndrome is a rare skin condition. Signs and symptoms of Sweet's syndrome include fever and painful skin lesions that appear mostly on your arms, neck, head and trunk. The exact cause isn't known. In some people, it's triggered by an infection, illness or certain medications. It sometimes is associated with cancer, most often leukemia. Occasionally, this condition may be associated with a solid tumor, such as breast or colon cancer. Learn more about the symptoms and treatment options for Sweet's syndrome.

Where can prostate cancer spread?
When cancer cells break away from a tumor in the prostate, they can travel to other areas of the body. In theory, prostate cancer cells can spread anywhere in the body. In practice, though, most cases of prostate cancer metastasis occur in the lymph nodes and the bones. Learn more from Dr. Erik Castle, a Mayo Clinic urologist.

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Myxofibrosarcoma 
Myxofibrosarcoma is a type of cancer that typically appears as a slow-growing, painless lump on one of your legs or arms. The disease occurs mainly in people ages 50 to 70 and is slightly more common in men than in women. Myxofibrosarcoma often is mistaken for a benign tumor and treated as such by removing only the visible growth. This delays accurate diagnosis and complicates further treatment. Learn more about the signs and symptoms of myxofibrosarcoma.

Vulvar cancer
Vulvar cancer is a type of cancer that occurs on the outer surface area of the female genitalia. Though it can occur at any age, vulvar cancer is diagnosed most commonly in older adults. Signs and symptoms of vulvar cancer may include itching; pain; bleeding; skin changes, such as color changes or thickening; and a lumps, wartlike bumps or open sores. Learn about the risk factors for vulvar cancer and what you can do to keep yourself healthy.

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