Cervical Cancer Awareness Month 2024: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment And Prevention - Dr Sunil R Chopade
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In January, as the world observes Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Sunil R Chopade sheds light on the importance of understanding, preventing, and screening for cervical cancer. The theme for this year, 2024, revolves around the mantra "Learn, Prevent, Screen."
Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in females worldwide according to GLOBOCAN 2020 data. It is one of the most prevalent cancers in the females in India, being the leading cause of cancer deaths. Almost 70-80 % of this is caused by Human Papilloma Virus, a sexually transmitted infection.
The cervix is the lowest part of the uterus (where a baby grows during pregnancy). It looks a little bit like a donut and connects the uterus to the opening of the vagina. Cervical cancer happens when normal cells of cervix turns into precancerous cells. Cervical cancer can begin at the age of 25 and can happen thereafter 40-50 being common age.
Causes of Cervical Cancer
Almost all cases of cervical cancer result from HPV, transmitted through sexual contact. Practices such as early onset sexual activities, having multiple sexual partners, poor hygiene, low immunity due to illnesses like HIV, excessive smoking, and obesity pose as risk factors. Not receiving the HPV vaccination is a common cause for the increasing risk of cervical cancer.
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