CERVICAL CANCER What you Need to Know
Introduction
Cervical cancer symptoms include pelvic pain, irregular bleeding, fatigue, and weight loss.Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus connecting to the vagina.
Uterus has 2 parts; body and the cervix. The lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina is called the cervix. Cancer affecting the cervix is called the cervical cancer.
It is primarily caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection.
it is also one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer when detected early.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women globally.
Each year, there are an estimated 570,000 new cases of cervix worldwide, with about 311,000 deaths attributed to the disease.
ALARMING SYMPTOMS OF CERVICAL CANCER
The early stages of cervical cancer often do not cause any symptoms, and that is why regular screening tests are important for early detection.
However, as the cancer progresses, some common symptoms of cervix may include:
1.Intermenstrual bleeding or spotting
2.Bleeding or spotting after sex.
3.Bleeding after menopause.
4.Heavier and longer menstrual periods.
5.Unusual vaginal discharge which could be watery; bloody or smelly.
6. Pain during sexual intercourse.
7. Pelvic pain as the cancer grows and affects the nearby organs.
8. Pain during urination
9 Altered bowel habits like diarrhea or constipation; this happens when it has spread to nearby organs.
PREVENTION OF CERVICAL CANCER
1.Regular Pap smear and HPV tests: Pap tests can detect abnormal cells in the cervix before they develop into cancer.
And as the regular screening with Pap smears combined with HPV tests can help detect abnormal cells early ; the progression to cervical cancer can be arrested.
It is recommended that women start getting Pap tests at age 21 and continue every 3-5 years, depending on their age and risk factors.
The progression from an abnormal Pap smear to cervix can vary greatly from person to person. In many cases, abnormal cells detected on a Pap smear are not cancerous but are precancerous, meaning they have the potential to develop into cancer over time.
The time duration for the development of cervical cancer from abnormal cells can range from several years to decades.
Factors that can influence the progression include the type and severity of the abnormal cells, the presence of high-risk HPV infections, individual immune response, lifestyle factors, and overall health.
2. Getting the HPV vaccine: The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a major risk factor for cervix. The HPV vaccine can prevent infection with the most common types of HPV that cause cervical cancer. It is recommended for both boys and girls starting at age 11 or 12.
The vaccines available in the markets are protective against HPV types 16,18,31,33,45,52,58,6,11; out of which HPV 16 and 18 are common viruses causing cervical cancer.
3. Practicing safe sex: Using condoms during sexual activity can reduce the risk of HPV and other sexually transmitted infections that can increase the risk of cervix.
4. Not smoking: Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of cervical cancer. Quitting smoking can reduce this risk.
5. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle: Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer.
6. Limiting the number of sexual partners: Having multiple sexual partners increases the risk of exposure to HPV and other sexually transmitted infections, which can increase the risk of cervical cancer.
7. Seeking regular medical care: Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help detect any abnormalities early and provide appropriate treatment if needed.