CERVICAL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

"Get Informed. Get Screened. Get Vaccinated"

The cervix is a muscular, tunnel-like organ. It's the lower part of your uterus, and it connects the uterus and vagina. Sometimes called the “neck of the uterus,” the cervix plays an important role in allowing fluids to pass between the uterus and vagina.

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina.

Every year, the month of January is observed as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month which is represented by a teal-coloured ribbon.

At the World Health Assembly in May 2018, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of WHO, made a global call for action toward the elimination of cervical cancer. As a result, in November 2020, WHO formally launched the Global Strategy to Accelerate the Elimination of Cervical Cancer.

It isn't clear what causes cervical cancer, but it's certain that HPV plays a role. HPV is very common, and most people with the virus never develop cancer. This means other factors, such as your environment or your lifestyle choices, also determine whether you'll develop cervical cancer.

Early-stage cervical cancer generally produces no signs or symptoms. Signs and symptoms of more-advanced cervical cancer include- Vaginal bleeding after intercourse, between periods or after menopause, Watery, bloody vaginal discharge that may be heavy and have a foul odor, Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse

Treatments include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.