Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, with millions of people dying each year from all types of cancer. But did you know that some types of cancer only affect women? (In rare cases, men are also at risk). Cervical cancer is one such serious problem.
Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women globally with an estimated 6.04 lakh new cases and more than 3.42 lakh deaths in 2020. Cervical cancer incidence and mortality rates are highest in low- and middle-income countries.
It's important to shed light on this health risk affecting women around the world, health experts say. The month of January is celebrated as 'Cervical Cancer Awareness Month' to increase awareness among people about the risks of this cancer increasing globally and educating people about prevention, screening, and treatment. Cervical cancer is a significant health challenge in India also, do you know about it?
Know about cervical cancer
Cervical cancer is cancer that occurs in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus connected to the vagina. This cancer often develops slowly, which can make symptoms difficult to recognize. Human papillomavirus (HPV) has been shown to cause the highest risk of cervical cancer. HPV is a common infection that is spread through sexual contact.
Although the body's immune system can destroy the HPV virus, however, in a small percentage of people the virus can survive for years and cause cancer.
Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
Usually, no symptoms are visible in the initial stages of cervical cancer, which is why its risk may be higher. As this cancer progresses, some symptoms may become apparent which are very important to pay attention to.
Vaginal bleeding after intercourse, between periods, or after menopause.
Heavy menstrual bleeding or lasting longer than normal.
Vaginal discharge may smell foul.
Experiencing severe pain in the pelvic area during intercourse.
Which people are at risk of this cancer?
Health experts say some conditions may increase your risk of this cancer.
If you have sexual contact with more than one person. The greater the number of sexual partners, the greater the risk of this cancer. Apart from this, having sex at a young age also increases the risk of HPV. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can also increase the risk of this cancer. If your immune system is weakened by another chronic health problem and you get an HPV infection, you may be more likely to develop cervical cancer.
Smoking also increases the risk of cervical cancer. HPV infection may persist for a longer period in people who smoke.
How to prevent cervical cancer?
Health experts say you can prevent cervical cancer by following some measures. For this, it is most important to take the HPV vaccine. Getting vaccinated to prevent HPV infection can reduce the risk of cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases. Ask your doctor if the HPV vaccine is right for you. Apart from this, get regular Pap tests done on the doctor's advice. Pap tests can help detect cancerous conditions in the cervix.
Practice safe sex to reduce the risk of this infection. It is very important to take measures to prevent sexually transmitted infections. Apart from this, if you smoke, it is very important to quit it.
(PC: iStock)
