UNDERSTANDING CERVICAL CANCER: CAUSES, SYMPTOMS, AND PREVENTION STRATEGIES
Cervical cancer is a long-lasting infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). It often develops slowly over time, starting with precancerous changes in the cells of the cervix before progressing to cancer.
In India, cervical cancer contributes approximately 6–29% of all cancers in women with around 4000 deaths every year. Lack of awareness of the signs, early detection techniques, and treatment choices for this kind of cancer is one of the reasons why so many cases go unrecognized
WHAT ARE THE MAJOR CAUSES OF IT?
Cervical cancer is a form of cancer that develops in the cells of the cervix, which is the lower region of the uterus that connects to the vagina.
The two main kinds of cervical cancer are squamous cell carcinomas and adenocarcinomas. Between 10% and 20% of cervical malignancies are adenocarcinomas, while 80% to 90% of cases are squamous cell carcinomas.
Cancer-causing human papillomavirus (HPV) is transmitted by sexual contact, whether it be anal, oral, or vaginal. While the body’s immune system typically prevents the virus from causing harm upon exposure to HPV, in a minority of cases, the virus can persist for years and contribute to the development of cancerous cervical cells.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING FOR CERVICAL CANCER:
- The majority of cervical cancer cases can be found through routine gynecological examinations with a Pap test that involves a gynecological examination
- A specialized HPV test that looks for HPV infection in the cells of your cervix. Cervical cancer has been linked to specific HPV infection types.
- Additional tests will determine whether the cancer has spread (metastasized) if the biopsy results in a cancer diagnosis. These examinations may involve studies on kidney and liver function, tests on blood or urine and abdominal cavity, rectum, bowels, and bladder X-rays.
TREATMENT PLANS FOR MANAGING CERVICAL CANCER:
A gynecologic oncologist-recommended course of action for cervical cancer depends on a number of variables, including the disease’s stage, your age, general health, and if you intend to have children in the future. Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, surgery, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy are all available therapies for cervical cancer.
TIPS TO PREVENT CERVICAL CANCER AND MAINTAIN A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE:
Individuals with weakened immune systems, those who have been affected by HPV and HIV infections, and those who smoke and consume alcohol are at a higher risk of developing certain types of cancer.
Additionally, people who have had multiple full-term pregnancies and multiple sexual partners may also be at increased risk. Being aware of these risk factors can help individuals take proactive steps toward preventing cancer and maintaining their overall health.
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