Unlocking The Hidden Hurdles Of Cervical Cancer Testing For Women's Wellness

Cervical cancer is a serious and fastest-growing health concern for women worldwide, ranking as the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer. The World Health Organization's (WHO) data from 2020 revealed approximately 604,000 new cases globally. Notably, India leads in cervical cancer cases in Asia, as highlighted by recent studies. In India, cervical and breast cancers top the list of prevalent cancers among women, comprising 6-29% of all reported cases.?

Every year, January is observed as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month ( CCAM) to encourage women to take timely measures to decrease morbidity and mortality rates. Awareness is the key to saving millions of lives. This year, it is themed around “Learn. Prevent. Screen.”, emphasizing the necessity of educating women to minimize the risk of cervical cancer with the right knowledge and regular screening.?

It is crucial to #BeYourOwnShero by striking a balance between household responsibilities and personal time. Set clear objectives for taking care of yourself, managing stress, and scheduling regular health check-ups to safeguard your overall well-being.

Considering the severity, let’s understand cervical cancer and its symptoms, risk factors, causes, and preventive measures and encourage women to take the forefront of their cervical health.?

Know Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is a condition where cells grow uncontrollably in the cervix, forming a tumor. It impacts the reproductive system of females. This unusual growth of cells invades nearby tissues and other body parts and is associated with prolonged infection by specific types of human papillomavirus ( HPV). It is said to be treatable and preventable if detected early.?

A recent study states that 90% of? 342000 deaths in low and middle-income countries are because of cervical cancer. Those women who are afflicted by HIV are at 6 times more risk of developing cervical cancer, and 5% of these cases are caused by HIV. It is disheartening to learn that most young children lose their mothers to cervical cancer.

Exploring The Risk Factors For Cervical Cancer

The transmission of HPV, a major factor in the development of cervical cancer, occurs through skin-to-skin contact, especially during intimate encounters. There are 200 distinct variants of HPV, and specific types of this virus can instigate changes in cervical cells that may develop into cancer. Among the 100 strains of HPV, only certain ones are linked to cervical cancer, with HPV-16 and HPV-18 being the most prevalent contributors. Women with weakened immune systems, such as those affected by HIV, are more susceptible to developing this disease. For individuals with a family history of cervical cancer, staying vigilant and undergoing regular screenings is crucial, given their increased vulnerability to the condition.

The complexities of cervical cancer can be handled by staying aware and updated about the root causes leading to cervical cancer risk. Current estimates state that every year 123907 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and 77348 lose their lives from the disease. It contributes around 6-29% of all cancers in women.

Using oral contraceptives for a prolonged time or having multiple pregnancies can increase the risk for this condition. A woman who has given birth to 3 or more children is more susceptible compared to someone who has planned her pregnancy with proper consultation and diagnosis. Moreover, someone diagnosed with the sexually transmitted disease Chlamydia has a higher chance of being infected by cervical cancer. Hence, engaging in safe sex is essential for overall well-being.

Moreover, women often neglect their diet, leading to deficiencies and weak immune systems. Following a nutritious and balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants can lower the risk of being affected by cervical cancer.

Understanding The Symptoms Of Cervical Cancer

Many women fail to realize they have cervical cancer as it shows symptoms in the later stages. There are chances that one might easily mistake the symptoms for common conditions like menstruation or urinary tract infection. If detected timely, the criticality of the situation can be avoided.

Persistent observation of certain common symptoms over an extended duration should not be ignored, such as excessive vaginal bleeding either during intercourse, between periods, or after menopause, unusual vaginal discharge, fatigue, and weight loss, lower back pain or swelling in the leg and difficulties with urination and bowel movement.

Regular Screenings and consultations with a healthcare professional will provide women with insights into their cervical health and help them act promptly, taking a foremost step towards prevention through early intervention. #BeYourOwnShero through self-prioritization and nurturing.

Recognizing The Stages Of Cervical Cancer

Once the cancer has been diagnosed, the doctor assigns it a stage that determines how far it has spread and helps find the right treatment. There are four stages of cervical cancer:

Stage 1: The cancer is small. It may have spread to the lymph nodes but not the other parts.

Stage 2: The cancer is now larger and may have spread outside of the lymph nodes to the uterus and cervix but not the other parts.

Stage 3: In this stage, the cancer usually spreads to the lower part of the vagina or pelvis, blocking the ureters, tubes carrying urine from the kidneys to the bladder.

Stage 4: The risk factors are enhanced when one reaches the fourth stage as the cancer spreads outside the pelvis to organs like the lungs, liver, and bones.

#BeYourOwnShero by committing to a healthy and fit lifestyle, safeguarding yourself by focusing on your wellness, and being vigilant about your body through periodic screening tests.

Cervical Cancer and Pregnancy

Cervical cancer is one of the most common gynecological malignant tumors during pregnancy, accounting for 71.6%. Though the incidence of the disease during pregnancy is low, one is not completely safe as its symptoms can be confused with other pregnancy symptoms. Consulting your healthcare professional and making the right diagnosis is imperative.

Treating cancer during pregnancy can be complicated. If the cancer is at an early stage, there are chances for one to opt for treatment post-delivery, but if detected in the advanced stages where radiation is required, then one might have to terminate the pregnancy.

PAP & HPV Screening Tests To Reduce Cervical Cancer Risk

Though there is no sure-shot way of completely preventing cervical cancer, there are measures one can take to minimize the odds of developing it. A frequent PAP test or HPV test can help evaluate the change in cervical cells in the body. A PAP Smear Test ensures early detection of abnormal changes in the cervical cells, even before they become cancerous. Early detection helps manage the condition effectively. Regular monitoring can prevent the progression of non-cancerous cells into cervical cancer. Additionally, an HPV vaccination protects against the types of HPV infections responsible for cervical cancer.?

HPV infection transmits through sexual intercourse, hence, sexually active women should use protection to prevent infection. Along with safe sex practices, getting vaccinated and screened for cervical cancer can prevent the disease.

Vaccine For Cervical Cancer Is Available In India

Well, the good news is that "The Drugs Controller General of India" has approved the first Made in India qHPV vaccine. Cervavac is the first Indian Cervical Cancer vaccine that causes an antibody that is at least a thousand times stronger than the baseline. It will significantly boost immunity and protect women from the disease.?

Conclusion

Observing Cervical Cancer Awareness Month raises awareness about the disease and highlights the crucial role of timely screenings in preventing complications that can disrupt a healthy lifestyle.

Redcliffe Labs urges women to take preventive measures and get themselves screened for cervical cancer by opting for Cancer Screening and PAP tests. #BeYourOwnShero, cultivate your wellness, and foster an environment of well-being for your family.