Cervical cancer is the fourth most common type of cancer in women worldwide, and it can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early.
What Is Cervix?
The lower portion of the uterus that links to the vagina is called the cervix. It resembles a little doughnut that connects your uterus to the opening of your vagina. It is covered in cell-based tissues that have the potential to develop into precancerous cells.
What Causes Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer is mostly caused by the sexually transmitted HPV virus. Sexual activity, whether anal, oral, or vaginal, can transfer the HPV virus which can lead to cancer. It is present in a person's body but most people won't be aware of it while their bodies are battling it. The cells in your cervix, however, could develop into malignant cells if your body fails to combat the infection.
The body's immune system normally stops the virus from causing harm when exposed to HPV. However, Some unknowingly endure the infection for years, the virus endures for years and aids in the process by which some cervical cells develop into cancer cells.
You can lower your risk of developing cervical cancer by getting screening tests and an anti-HPV vaccine.
What are the signs and symptoms of cervical cancer?
Early cervical cancer stages are typically asymptomatic and difficult to identify. It could take several years before cervical cancer symptoms appear. The greatest approach to prevent cervical cancer is to find abnormal cells during checkups.
Stage 1 cervical cancer symptoms and signs may include:
- Vaginal discharge that is either watery or bloody, may be heavy, and may smell bad.
- Vaginal bleeding following sex, in between cycles, or after menopause.
- Periods of menstruation may be heavier and longer than usual.
How to diagnose cervical cancer?
Screening for cervical cancer is an essential component of regular medical care. It helps find precancerous changes in cervical cells, which can be treated to stop cervical cancer from growing. Early-stage cervical cancer is typically easier to treat. It may spread by the time symptoms start to manifest, making treatment more challenging.
Cervical cancer screening can be done in three ways:
- The human papillomavirus (HPV) test checks for high-risk HPV strains that can lead to cervical cancer in cells.
- Cervical cells are gathered for the Pap test, also known as a Pap smear or cervical cytology, so they can be examined for HPV-related alterations that could develop into cervical cancer if left untreated. It can detect cervical cancer cells as well as precancerous cells.
- The HPV/Pap test employs both an HPV test and a Pap test to look for high-risk HPV and alterations in cervical cells.
Also Read – What Is Cervical Cancer? Symptoms And Treatment
How to Treat Cervical Cancer?
The course of treatment for cervical cancer is determined by several criteria, including the cancer's stage, the patient's age, general health, and others. The cervical cancer treatment comprises:
Surgery: Surgery may involve removing the entire uterus, cervix, and surrounding tissues, or just the malignant tissue.
Radiation therapy: High-energy X-rays are used in radiation therapy to kill cancer cells.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses medication and drugs to kill cancer cells.
The cancer's stage determines the type of treatment. Surgery or radiation treatment might be enough to treat cancer in its early stages while Chemotherapy can be used with surgery or radiation therapy at a later stage.
How Can Cervical Cancer Be Prevented?
It is possible to avoid cervical cancer by lowering the risk factors that are connected to it. The actions listed below can aid in preventing cervical cancer:
- Get routine Pap testing to look for atypical cervix cells.
- Get an HPV vaccination.
- Use condoms to engage in safe sexual activity.
- Avoid smoking.
Cervical cancer, a serious and sometimes fatal condition, can be avoided by being aware of the risk factors. You should recognize the signs and symptoms of cervical cancer and consult a doctor immediately if you experience any of them.
Agilus Diagnostics, a subsidiary of Fortis Healthcare Limited
