Some of the known high-risk factors for developing cervical cancer include infection with human papilloma virus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection. This is often the underlying cause of most cases of cervical cancer, with HPV types 16 and 18 causing about 70% of all cervical cancers.
"Cervical Cancer Awareness Month is a good time to find out how to avoid becoming one of these frightening statistics," says 1st for Women Insurance's Executive Head, Robyn Farrell.
The Foundation's Cervical Cancer Programme, which is geared towards actively combatting cervical cancer, has 11 tips for South African women.
For more information, go to www.firstforwomen.co.za/foundation.