Yet virtually all cervical cancer deaths can be prevented by getting routine Pap smears, practicing safe sex, and not smoking. The main risk factors for cervical cancer are linked to sexual habits. Adolescent females who begin to have sexual relations before the age of 18 are more likely to develop cervical cancer than are women who delay having sexual intercourse. Using latex condoms and a spermicide that contains nonoxynol-9 may help prevent the spread of HPV and other STDs. HPV can be on the scrotum, thigh and other places not covered by condoms.
Smoking is another risk factor for developing cervical cancer.
Husbands who cheat on their wives risk giving them cervical cancer. There is evidence that poor eating habits can also contribute to developing cervical cancer. Foods rich in folate include leafy green vegetables, legumes, oranges and wheat germ. Your best weapon against cancer of the cervix is to get an annual Pap test. Named for its developer, George N. Papanicolaou, the Pap Smear can detect not only cervical cancer, but precancerous cells as well.