- 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.
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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.
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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.
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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 )