- CANCER HELPLINE: 1800-22-1951
- 91 7317418888
- contact@drharshatreya.com
- CANCER HELPLINE: 1800-22-1951
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Most cases of cervical cancer are caused by persistent infection with certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection. Early detection and preventive measures have significantly improved survival rates, making cervical cancer highly preventable and treatable when caught early.
The primary cause of cervical cancer is infection with high-risk types of HPV, specifically HPV types 16 and 18, which are responsible for the majority of cases.
For women recovering from cervical cancer, regular follow-up appointments are crucial for monitoring recurrence and managing side effects. Support from healthcare providers, counselors, and support groups can help patients navigate the emotional and physical challenges of treatment and recovery.
Cervical cancer may not cause symptoms in its early stages. As the cancer progresses, common symptoms include:
Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding: This may occur between periods, after intercourse, or after menopause.
Unusual Vaginal Discharge: Discharge may be watery, bloody, or have a foul odor.
Pelvic Pain: Pain may range from mild to severe and is typically located in the lower abdomen or pelvis.
Pain During Intercourse: Also known as dyspareunia, this may occur if the cancer has spread to nearby tissues.
Preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of cervical cancer:
HPV Vaccination: Vaccines like Gardasil and Cervarix protect against high-risk HPV strains. Vaccination is recommended for boys and girls, ideally between ages 9 and 12, but it can be administered later as well.
Regular Screening: Routine Pap smears and HPV testing are crucial for detecting precancerous changes before they progress to cancer.
Practice Safe Sex: Using condoms and limiting the number of sexual partners can reduce the risk of HPV infection.
Quit Smoking: Smoking can weaken the immune system’s response to HPV, increasing the risk of cervical cancer. Avoiding tobacco products can help protect against cervical and other types of cancers.
Treatment depends on factors like the stage of cancer, overall health, and whether the patient wishes to preserve fertility. Key treatments include:
Surgery: Early-stage cervical cancer may be treated with surgery to remove the cancerous tissue. Types of surgery include:
Radiation Therapy: This is often used for advanced cases or in combination with surgery. Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells, and it may be delivered externally or internally (brachytherapy).
Chemotherapy: For advanced cervical cancer, chemotherapy is often used alongside radiation therapy to improve treatment efficacy. It involves the use of drugs that kill cancer cells or prevent them from multiplying.
Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy: In cases where cervical cancer does not respond well to traditional treatments, targeted therapy (such as bevacizumab, which inhibits tumor blood vessel growth) or immunotherapy (like pembrolizumab, which helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells) may be used.
© 2024 Harshvardhan Atreya. All Rights Reserved.