Heather Malcomb, a 44-year-old medical assistant at Atrium Health, shares her inspiring story of overcoming cervical cancer, thanks to early detection through routine Pap smear screenings. Malcomb’s journey serves as a poignant reminder of the life-saving potential of regular cervical cancer screenings.
For Heather, the commitment to annual pelvic exams and Pap smears became a crucial part of her healthcare regimen, particularly following her mother’s battle with bladder cancer a decade ago. A Pap smear, also known as a Pap test, is a diagnostic procedure performed during a pelvic exam. During this examination, healthcare providers collect cell samples and mucus from the cervix using a small brush or swab. These samples are subsequently examined for abnormal cells or the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV), which may indicate cervical cancer or precancerous changes in the cervix.
In August 2022, Heather attended her annual check-up with her primary care provider, Marleen Traywick, FNP, a family medicine nurse practitioner at Atrium Health Primary Care Lake Park Family Medicine. Her Pap smear results indicated abnormalities, prompting Traywick to recommend further evaluation by an OB-GYN.
Heather’s journey led her to consult with Dr. Natasha Adams-Denny, an OB-GYN at Atrium Health Women’s Care Creek Pointe OB-GYN. Under Dr. Adams-Denny’s care, Heather underwent additional Pap smears, all of which revealed abnormal results. A colposcopy was subsequently performed to assess her cervix, vagina, and vulva for signs of precancerous or cancerous tissue. Three biopsies were conducted, revealing high-grade dysplasia (severely abnormal cervical cells) and high-risk HPV, a potential precursor to cervical cancer.
Dr. Adams-Denny performed a Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) to remove a portion of Heather’s cervix. Subsequent pathology testing confirmed the presence of cancer, prompting a referral to Dr. Jubilee Brown, a gynecologic oncologist at Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute.
Heather underwent a hysterectomy with Dr. Brown, which marked the final stage of her treatment. The procedure involved the removal of her uterus and cervix. Heather’s cervical cancer was classified as microinvasive, indicating that it was at an early stage, warranting this surgical intervention.
Heather expresses her gratitude for the care she received, particularly praising Dr. Adams-Denny and Dr. Brown for their support and expertise throughout her journey. Her prognosis is deemed excellent by her medical team, given the early detection of her cancer.
Risk Factors and Screening Importance
Cervical cancer is influenced by various risk factors, including HPV infection, smoking, prolonged use of birth control pills, weakened immune systems, sexual history, multiple full-term pregnancies, early pregnancy before age 20, poor diet, limited access to healthcare services, a family history of cervical cancer, and exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES) between 1938 and 1971.
Regular cervical cancer screenings have played a pivotal role in reducing cervical cancer-related deaths in the United States. Heather’s story underscores the importance of routine pelvic exams and Pap smears, which can detect cervical cancer even in the absence of symptoms. Early detection enables less aggressive treatments and significantly improves survival rates.
Heather passionately advocates for regular Pap smears and pelvic exams for all women, emphasizing that early detection is the key to overcoming cervical cancer. She urges women to prioritize their health, stating that these screenings can ultimately save lives.
Dr. Adams-Denny echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the significance of routine pelvic screenings starting at age 21 and Pap smears every three to five years. Additionally, she recommends the Gardasil HPV vaccine for those under 45, as it can prevent cervical cancer.
In conclusion, Heather’s story serves as a compelling testament to the life-saving potential of routine cervical cancer screenings. Her experience underscores the importance of early detection and the role of healthcare providers in promoting women’s health and well-being.
