What is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer is the cancer arising from the uterine cervix in the female reproductive system. It is the second most prevalent cancer affecting women, often leaving beautiful families bereft of their mothers. Alarmingly, this cancer claims the lives of 50% of affected women in India alone, with approximately 95,000 new cases diagnosed annually.
However, amidst these sobering statistics lies a beacon of hope:
Cervical Cancer Can Be Both Prevented And Completely Cured, Especially When Detected In Its Early Stages.
Why is it important?
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the World Health Organization (WHO) has embarked on a mission to eliminate cervical cancer worldwide. The comprehensive approach entails continued efforts to vaccinate at least 90% of people below 15 years old, screening 70% of all women for precancerous lesions and treatment of 90% of women with cancer. These proactive measures are essential for achieving global cervical cancer elimination goals set forth by the World Health Organization (WHO) to safeguard future generations from this devastating disease.
HPV - Human Papilloma Virus
Central to our understanding of cervical cancer is the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), its primary cause. HPV is a common pathogen like the common cold virus. It is a very mild virus which gets easily cleared by our immunity. Persistent, recurrent HPV infections lead to the integration the viral DNA into the cells of the cervix resulting in cancerous changes at the uterine cervix. It is also responsible for various other cancers, including those affecting external genital parts, lower parts of the large intestines, rectum, anus, and head and neck regions.
Transmitted through intimate contact, HPV infections are pervasive but often cleared by the body's immune system. However, certain high-risk HPV strains can lead to cervical cancer over time, underscoring the importance of Early Detection and Prevention efforts.
Symptoms of HPV Infection & Cervical Cancer
- White discharge from the vagina.
- Occasional bleeding post-sexual activity or between periods.
- If there is the development of growths or ulcers on the cervix, it will be accompanied by profuse foul-smelling discharge or discharge mixed with blood.
- In some cases, there may be Chronic lower backache.
- In some cases, there may be difficulty in passing urine, pain during urination, or frequent urination.
- In some cases, there may be complaints of constipation or incomplete evacuation of bowels.
- In extremely rare cases, there may be complaints of passing gas or motion or urine through the vagina
These symptoms warrant prompt evaluation and medical intervention to rule out HPV infection or cervical cancer. A Gynecologic Oncologist can perform the necessary examination to provide a clear diagnosis.
Prevention
Prevention begins with Vaccination, a simple yet effective measure against many deadly infections. Today, we have vaccines specifically designed to combat cervical cancer, including CERVAVAC, GARDASIL, and CERVARIX, which boast a remarkable 90% efficacy in cancer prevention. Administered to individuals aged 9-45 years, these vaccines have been shown to reduce the precancerous conditions in the cervix by 88% and viral warts by 80%. The vaccinations have already reached over 135 million doses worldwide, with resounding support from governments and health authorities.
Screening
In addition to vaccination, regular screening once every 5 years is essential for detecting cancerous as well as precancerous conditions. HPV testing can be done, either alone or in conjunction with Liquid-Based Cytology (LBC) or routine pap smears or visual inspection of the cervix using acetic acid (VIA). Screening can commence at 25 years of age and continue till 65 years of age following three consecutive normal reports. If a hysterectomy was performed for non-cancerous conditions, a biopsy report of the uterus be negative for precancerous cells.
If a hysterectomy was performed for precancerous conditions, the woman MUST MANDATORILY UNDERGO SCREENING FOR NEXT 20 years. This is because HPV can persist within cells and lead to cancer development years later.
Summary
Cervical cancer, primarily driven by HPV infection, remains a significant public health challenge. However, through vaccination, regular screening, and timely treatment of precancerous lesions, we can shield our families and ourselves from the scourge of cervical cancer. By raising awareness and encouraging proactive measures such as vaccination and screening, we can save lives and protect future generations from the burden of this deadly disease.
As we strive for a future free from this disease, let us remember that
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