Cervical Cancer Awareness Month 2024: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment And Prevention - Dr Sunil R Chopade

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.

Symptoms and Signs

• Vaginal bleeding between periods
• Menstrual bleeding longer or heavier than usual
• Pain during intercourse
• Bleeding after intercourse
• Pelvic pain
• Change in vaginal discharge (more, strong odour, unusual colour)
• Vaginal bleeding after menopause

Females experiencing these symptoms should consult doctors and undergo necessary tests as advised.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves examining cervical tissue, with cytology and PAP smear helping detect precancerous and cancerous cells. Biopsy, CT scan, MRI, and PETCT scans determine tumour size, extent, and spread.

Treatment

Treatment varies based on tumour stage. Early-stage cancer may be cured with surgery or chemo-radiotherapy. Advanced-stage patients receive chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, focusing on symptom control and life prolongation.

Prevention

Prevention methods include community education on safe sexual practices, smoking cessation, cancer screening, and HPV vaccination. Cervical cancer screening through PAP smear and HPV testing reduces the risk significantly. The WHO recommends a PAP smear every five years for women starting at age 25 and at least one adequate smear per lifetime for women over 35.

HPV Prevention

Safe sexual practices, using barrier methods like condoms, and regular PAP smear testing can prevent HPV transmission. HPV vaccines like Gardasil, Cervarix, and Nonavalent HPV are available. Vaccination is recommended for girls aged 9-14 (2 doses) and those aged 16 and in reproductive age (3 doses).

Government health institutions actively work to create awareness about HPV vaccination, its availability, and implementation.

In conclusion, Dr. Sunil R Chopade urges individuals to learn about cervical cancer, prevent it through early HPV vaccination, and undergo regular screening, particularly during the reproductive age, to combat this battle against cervical cancer.