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Abnormal Pap Smears: What Every Woman Needs to Know
Abnormal Pap Smears What Every Woman Needs to Know Author:Lynda Rushing M.D., Nancy Joste M.D. You have just received an abnormal Pap smear diagnosis, joining the ranks of the close to 4 million women annually who receive one. What does it mean? Do you have cancer? What happens next? For most women, the follow-up for an abnormal Pap smear involves long periods of anxious waiting as well as unfamiliar procedures and examinations. Few ... more »women understand the significance of their abnormal results or know that abnormalities on a Pap smear are linked to infections by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Even fewer are aware that this virus is pervasive, with the majority of American women being infected at some time in their lives. Written by two physicians in clear and concise language, this comforting book covers the various Pap smear diagnoses, ranging from "atypical" to cervical cancer. The association of cervical disease with HPV is emphasized and the various treatments for Pap smear abnormalities are explained in-depth. New technologies that promise better testing are critically examined. Also discussed are "lifestyle" changes that may lead to minimizing a woman's risk of developing cervical disease. Vital to the book are personal interviews with women who share their experiences and feelings about cervical disease as well as how it was detected and treated. A list of important questions to ask your physician and helpful sources for additional information round out the book. This well-illustrated, uncomplicated, and sympathetic handbook is indispensable, and may even be lifesaving, for all women who are seeking to understand their abnormal Pap smear results.« less