CERVICAL CANCER - WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW!

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Cervical cancer is the growth of abnormal cells in the lower part of the uterus called cervix. According to WHO, cervical cancer is the fourth  most common cancer among women globally with an estimated 604,000 new cases and 342,000 deaths in 2020.

WHAT CAUSES CERVICAL CANCER 
Most cervical cancers are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a virus transmitted through sexual contact be it vaginal, anal or oral. There are several strains of HPV but only two strains causes cervical cancer; HPV type 16 and 18.

SYMPTOMS OF CERVICAL CANCER
The early stage of cervical cancer generally produces no signs and symptoms. At the advanced stage, some symptoms may begin to show which include;
  • Vaginal bleeding between menstrual periods, after menopause or after sexual intercourse.
  • Vaginal discharge
  • Painful urination
  • Pelvic pain

WHO IS AT RISK
Women who are at risk for cervical cancer include;
  • Having HPV infection
  • Having sex at an early age
  • Having multiple sexual partners
  • Having HIV infection
  • Smoking
  • Long term use of contraceptives
  • A weakened immune system

TREATMENT OF CERVICAL CANCER
The treatment of cervical cancer is based on factors including the stage of the disease, your age and general body health and whether or not you want to have children in the future. Treatments include;
  • Radiation Therapy
The use of energy beams to kill cancer cells on your cervix.
  • Chemotherapy
Is a treatment where drugs are injected through your veins or taken by mouth to kill cancer cells.
  • Surgery such as laser, cryosurgery, hysterectomy, cone biopsy, pelvic exenteration and trachelectomy.
  • Targeted Therapy
This treatment focuses on destroying specific cancer cells without damaging healthy cells.
  • Immunotherapy
In this treatment, medications are given to stimulate your immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells.

PREVENTION OF CERVICAL CANCER
There are several ways that can help reduce your risk of getting cervical cancer.
  • Ask your doctor about the HPV vaccine and get vaccinated if you are eligible.
  • Have routine Pap tests - This test can detect precancerous condition of the cervix.
  • Using condoms and dental dams during any sexual contact.
  • Limit the number of your sexual partners.
  • Avoid smoking

Women from the age of 21 years and beyond should begin cervical cancer screening regardless of your sexual history. Early detection of cervical cancer can increase your survival rate and chances of being treated. 

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