- Cervical Cancer Awareness Month is typically observed in January.
- It aims to raise awareness about cervical cancer, promote screening, and encourage preventive measures.
- Regular check-ups and vaccinations against human papillomavirus (HPV) can contribute to the prevention and early detection of cervical cancer.
What is cervical cancer?
- Cervical cancer is a condition where there is an abnormal growth or proliferation of the cells lining the cervix .
- The infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common cause (about 90%) of cervical cancer.
Occurrence in population
- Fourth most prominent cancer in women. India accounts for an incidence.
- The global incidence of cervical cancer in 2020 was estimated to be 6,04,000 new cases and 3,42,000 deaths.
- India shares 1/4th of the total global cases.
- Is cervical cancer dangerous or life threatening?
- Yes, cervical cancer can be dangerous, especially if not detected and treated early.
- Regular screenings, such as Pap smears, can help in early detection and prevention.
Early sign
- Early signs of cervical cancer may not always be apparent, which is why regular screenings are crucial.
- However, symptoms can include abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, and unusual vaginal discharge.
Symptoms
It includes abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, and unusual vaginal discharge.
Need and Importance of cervical cancer awareness month
- Keeping in mind about seriousness of cervical cancer. We have to promote people about the HPV vaccination apart from the regular screening for detecting and treating precancerous lesions in women.
- Cervical screening on a regular basis can help in preventing both localized and non-localized cervical cancer.
- Study of 2016, subjects with three yearly screenings prevented 83% of non-localized cancers and 48% of stage I cancers compared to women who had not been screened in five years.
- Compared to women who did not attend a screening for 5 years, women who attended screening frequently , had a 90% reduction in the odds of non-localized cervical cancer & Reduction of 57% cervical cancer in stage I.
Prevention of Cervical cancer
- Regular Pap smear : to detect any abnormal cervical cell changes early.
- HPV vaccination: vaccination against Human papilloma virus.
- Safe sex practices : using condom to reduce the risk of HIV &other sexually transmitted infection.
- Quit smoking.
- Healthy lifestyle.
- Avoid Oral contraceptive
- Awareness & education.
– Prabhat Ranjan ( MBBS & Author, MCD )
