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Spreading Awareness, Fighting Against Cervical Cancer

Prevalence and Scope: Cervical cancer poses a substantial burden in India, contributing to approximately 6–29% of all cancers in women. Alarmingly, India alone accounts for one-quarter of the worldwide burden of cervical cancers. It stands as a leading cause of cancer mortality, representing 17% of all cancer deaths among women aged between 30 and 69 years.

The distribution of cervical cancer incidence in India exhibits regional variations. The age-adjusted incidence rate varies widely among different regions.

Risk Factors

Having a weakened immune system

The immune system is important in destroying cancer cells and slowing their growth and spread. In women with HIV, a cervical pre-cancer might develop into an invasive cancer faster than it normally would.

Having multiple full-term pregnancies

Women who have had 3 or more full-term pregnancies have an increased risk of developing cervical cancer.

Long-term use of oral contraceptives (birth control pills)

There is evidence that taking oral contraceptives (OCs) for a long time increases the risk of cancer of the cervix.

Smoking

Women who smoke are about twice as likely as those who don’t smoke to get cervical cancer. Tobacco by-products have been found in the cervical mucus of women who smoke.

Sexual history

Several factors related to your sexual history can increase the risk of cervical cancer. The risk is most likely affected by increasing the chances of exposure to HPV.

Chlamydia infection

Chlamydia is a relatively common kind of bacteria that can infect the reproductive system. It is spread by sexual contact.

Young age at first full-term pregnancy

Women who were younger than 20 years when they had their first full-term pregnancy are more likely to get cervical cancer later in life than women who waited to get pregnant until they were 25 years or older.

Symptoms Of Cervical Cancer

Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding: Irregular or unexpected bleeding outside the normal menstrual cycle.

Unusual Vaginal Discharge: Abnormal secretion from the vagina that may vary in color, consistency, or smell.

Pain During Sex: Discomfort or pain experienced during sexual intercourse.

Pelvic Pain: Aching or discomfort in the pelvic region, often persistent.

Swelling of the Legs: Abnormal enlargement of the legs, which may indicate underlying issues.

Urination or Bowel Issues: Difficulty or pain during urination or bowel movements.

Blood in the Urine: Presence of blood when urinating, potentially indicative of various health concerns.

Preventive Measures Of Cervical Cancer

Vaccination against HPV :- Vaccination against HPV is highly effective, with priority given to girls aged 9–14. Condom use, quitting smoking, and voluntary male circumcision also reduce HPV infection risk.

Regular Screenings :- Regular screening starting at age 30, or age 25 for women with HIV, helps detect cervical disease early.

Taking HPV Test: – Global recommendations include at least two HPV tests by age 35 and 45. Self-collection for HPV testing is a reliable option. After a positive result, treatments like thermal ablation or cryotherapy can prevent cervical cancer.

Other Preventive Measures :- Early detection and treatment of symptoms, such as unusual bleeding or pain, are crucial. Quality care involves a multidisciplinary team, adherence to guidelines, and holistic support for patients. As low- and middle-income countries expand screening, comprehensive cancer management strategies must be in place alongside prevention efforts.

Treatments Available For Cervical Cancer

Surgery:

Cold Knife Conization: Removes a cone-shaped piece of cervical tissue under general anesthesia.
Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: Identifies and removes the first lymph node likely to have cancer cells for examination.
Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus, cervix, and sometimes surrounding structures.
- Total Hysterectomy: Removes uterus and cervix through various approaches.
- Radical Hysterectomy: Removes additional structures like part of the vagina, ligaments, ovaries, and lymph nodes.
- Modified Radical Hysterectomy: Removes fewer tissues than radical hysterectomy.
Radical Trachelectomy: Removes cervix, nearby tissue, and upper vagina while preserving fertility.
Bilateral Salpingo-Oophorectomy: Removes both ovaries and fallopian tubes.
Total Pelvic Exenteration: Extensive surgery removing lower colon, rectum, bladder, cervix, vagina, ovaries, and lymph nodes.

Radiation Therapy:

External Radiation Therapy: Uses a machine outside the body to target cancer with intensity-modulated radiation therapy.
Internal Radiation Therapy (Brachytherapy): Places sealed radioactive substances directly into or near the cancer.

Chemotherapy:

Utilizes drugs like cisplatin, carboplatin, gemcitabine, and more to halt cancer cell growth.
Can be administered alone or in combination with other treatments.

Targeted Therapy:

Uses drugs like bevacizumab and tisotumab vedotin to block specific molecules involved in cancer growth.

Immunotherapy:

Enhances the immune system’s ability to combat cancer, with pembrolizumab being a drug used in cervical cancer treatment.

GMoney extends support to hospitals and healthcare professionals dedicated to Cervical cancer care. Let’s raise awareness, advocate for screenings, and stand united with those on their journey to recovery. 💛🍽️ #CervicalCancerAwareness #EarlyDetectionSavesLives