Cervical Cancer Awareness: Prevention, Causes, and Screening

January is celebrated as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month every year. With each passing year, it becomes more important to focus on and raise awareness about women’s health issues. So, what could be better than making resolutions to ensure optimal cervical health at the beginning of the year? Read all about the proactive or preventive strategies that women can undertake to take of their health and well-being.

Understanding Cervical Cancer: Prevalence and Causes

Cervical cancer, a major health concern, begins in the cells of the cervix. Globally, it ranks as the fourth most prevalent cancer, with 604,000 new cases reported as per a recent study. In India, it is the second most common type of cancer seen among women and constitutes 10 percent of all female cancers.

Most types of cervical cancer are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV can cause a sexually transmitted infection that targets the skin, genital area, and throat. Living with high-risk HPV types may result in precancerous changes to cells, or they may turn cancerous over time. This progression often takes 15-20 years, but in immunocompromised women, it may only take 5-10 years.

Risk Factors

Here are certain factors that increase the risk of cervical cancer:

  • Infection with oncogenic potential of the HPV type
  • Immune status
  • Presence of other infections, such as HIV
  • Family history
  • Smoking

Screening of Cervical Cancer

Screening involves looking for disease before any symptoms appear. Cervical cancer screening is a critical part of routine health checkups. It includes three major types of testing:

  • HPV test
  • Pap smear test
  • HPV/Pap co-test

During screening, a healthcare provider will evaluate the person’s detailed medical history and conduct a physical examination, such as a pelvic exam. To diagnose cervical cancer, procedures such as colposcopy and biopsy are used. Additionally, imaging tests such as PET-CT scans and lab tests to analyse blood chemistry can help determine the stage of cervical cancer. Regular screening and early detection are key factors for effective treatment and better outcomes.

Prevention of Cervical Cancer

Prevention involves both better lifestyle choices and medical interventions. These practices can positively contribute to preventing cervical cancer and maintaining general health.

  • Get the HPV Vaccine: The HPV vaccine protects against most types of HPV that cause cervical cancer. The vaccination is most effective when given before an individual becomes sexually active.
  • Regular Screening: Both pap smears and HPV tests can identify cervical changes that may develop into cancer. It is important to perform these screenings regularly to identify cervical cancer at an early stage.
  • Practice Safe Sex: Using condoms during sex can lower the risk of cervical cancer.
  • Avoid Smoking: Heavy smoking is associated with an increased risk of cervical cancer. Giving up smoking is good for your health and can greatly reduce your chances of developing cervical cancer.
  • Limit the Number of Sexual Partners: Having a lesser number of sexual partners is key to decreasing the likelihood of getting an HPV infection.

Adopting these measures can help in the prevention and early detection of cervical cancer.

Content partner Happiest Health

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