Wellness: Know the risk factors for cervical cancer Published Jan. 11, 2011 By Ms. Shari Lopatin TriWest Healthcare Alliance MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Many people have heard of the human papillomavirus. This virus is a widely-known risk factor for cervical cancer, but it isn't the only one. There are four lesser-known risk factors for this disease, which is survivable when caught early by screening regularly with a pap test. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, using birth control pills for five years or more can increase the risk for cervical cancer. However, the American Cancer Society stresses that the risk returns to normal approximately ten years after the pills are stopped. Although no experts can pinpoint why, giving birth to three or more children is also a risk factor. The American Cancer Society's website explains studies have indicated hormonal changes during pregnancies could make a woman more receptive to HPV or developing cancer, and pregnancies might weaken a woman's immune system, also making her more susceptible to HPV infection or cancer development. According to the Centers for Disease Control, having HIV, the virus which causes AIDS, or having any other immune condition that makes it hard for the body to fight infection, is a risk factor for developing cervical cancer. The American Cancer Society states that HIV also makes it more difficult for the body to fight off the HPV infection, which is a large risk factor for cervical cancer. Finally, according to the American Cancer Society, "women who smoke are about twice as likely as non-smokers to get cervical cancer." This is because smoking exposes the body to cancer-causing toxins and elements that affect other organs, besides the lungs. The most effective means of detecting cervical cancer is to get regular pap tests to screen for it. These tests are a TRICARE-covered benefit, available for eligible members to determine risk and detect possible early cancer, increasing the chances of treatment and survival. TriWest publishes healthy living tips and news articles on Facebook and Twitter at www.facebook.com/triwest and www.twitter.com/triwest.