How to prevent cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women globally, according to WHO. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Cervical cancer starts at the cervix as a growth of precancerous cells. It develops slowly and usually does not show any signs in the early stage. If the right measures are taken, it is easily treatable and preventable in nature. Unfortunately, not many people are aware of these simple measures.

Types of cervical cancer

Cervical cancers are named based on the type of cell where the cancer started. There are two main types of cervical cancer :

• Squamous cell carcinoma: Most cases of cervical cancer fall under this category. This type of cancer starts in the thin, flat cells known as squamous cells. These cells are the outermost part of the cervix.
• Adenocarcinoma : This type of cancer begins in the column shaped gland cells that line the cervical canal. This is not as common as the other type. Clear cell adenocarcinoma or mesonephroma is a rare type of cervical adenocarcinoma.

Symptoms

Early cervical cancer is hard to detect since it doesn’t usually show any symptoms. Symptoms usually appear after the cancer has spread.

On the rare chance that symptoms of early cervical cancer do occur, they may include

• Vaginal bleeding after intercourse.
• Vaginal bleeding between periods or periods that are longer or heavier than normal.
• Vaginal bleeding after menopause.
• Vaginal discharge that is watery and bloody that may be heavy and have a foul odor.
• Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse.

What are the causes of cervical cancer?

Most cases of cervical cancer are caused by human papillovirus, also commonly known as HPV. According to WHO, HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection which can affect the skin, genital area and throat. In most cases, our immune system clears out common HPV from our system but in some cases it gets left behind. These cases are known as high risk HPV and often lead to growth of abnormal cells that can turn into cancer cells.

Risk factors for cervical cancer

Although HPV is the main cause for cervical cancer, there are many other dangers that make you more susceptible to it. Things that are a part of your daily life might be damaging your immune system and putting you at risk for cancer. Some of the most common risk factors for cervical cancer are :

• Smoking tobacco

Smoking is one of the major factors that increase the risk of cervical cancer. HPV infections affect people who smoke more easily . These infections paired up with a weakened immune system lead to most cervical cancers.

• A weakened immune system

Having a weak immune system that is incapable of fighting infections such as HPV makes you an easy target for HPV. Not only that but pre-existing health conditions along with HPV, put you at an even higher risk for cervical cancer.

• Early sexual activity

Engaging in intercourse at an early age can put you at a greater risk of getting HPV which causes cervical cancer.

• Other sexually transmitted infections

Presence of other sexually transmitted infections, also known as STIs, increase the risk for HPV, which can lead to cervical cancer. STIs that contribute to this include herpes, syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV/AIDs.

Preventive measures against cervical cancer

Though incredibly common, cervical cancer is also easily preventable. Some ways to reduce your risk for cervical cancer are:

• HPV vaccination

You can consult your doctor regarding the HPV vaccination. Receiving proper vaccination for HPV infection may reduce your risk for cervical cancer and any other HPV-related issues.

• Practice safe intercourse

Taking time to prevent sexually transmitted infections can reduce your risk for cervical cancer. Limiting the number of sexual partners you have and using condoms is included in this practice.

• Have routine check ups with your doctor

Being updated on your health condition via regular check-ups may help you catch any signs of cervical cancer early. This also promotes overall health to be optimal.

• Don’t smoke

Smoking is a high risk factor for HPV. Not smoking can help you avoid cervical cancer and other damaging health problems.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer is the type that develops the on cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus .

2. What are the causes of cervical cancer?

The main cause of cervical cancer is human papillovirus, also known as HPV. The infection leads to the formation of abnormal cells on the cervix that can turn into cancer cells.

3. What are symptoms of cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer doesn't show any symptoms early on. Some rare symptoms consist of abnormal vaginal bleeding, watery discharge with a foul smell and pelvic pain during or after intercourse.

4. What are the risk factors of cervical cancer?

Risk factors for cervical cancer include smoking, unsafe and early intercourse, other STIs and a weakened immune system.

5. How can one prevent cervical cancer?

Preventive measures for cervical cancer include not smoking, HPV vaccination, safe intercourse practices and routine check ups with your gynaecologist.

6. Is cervical cancer treatable?

Yes, cervical cancer is highly treatable and also easily preventable.