Cervical cancer is the type of cancer that occurs in the cervix, the lower, narrow end of the uterus (womb) that connects the uterus to the vagina (birth canal).
It is caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV) a common sexually transmitted infection. HPV type 16 and 18 cause 70% of cervical cancer, persistent HPV infection of the cervix if not destroyed / untreated causes 95% of the cervical cancer.
Risk factors for cervical cancer
HPV infection.
Family history of cervical cancer.
Early onset of sexual activity.
Having multiple sexual partners.
Smoking.
Weakened immune.
Signs and symptoms of cervical cancer
Early stages of cervical cancer may not have any symptoms however as the cancer progresses, the symptoms include:
Abnormal vaginal bleeding
Pain during sex
Painful urination.
Unusual vaginal discharge – foul odor.
Weight loss, fatigue and loss of appetite.
Pelvic pain.
Diarrhea, pain or bleeding from the rectum when pooping.
Dull backache or swelling in the legs.
If you experience the above symptoms, please seek health advice from the health worker so as to have the best chance of cure.
Diagnosis
Bimanual pelvic and speculum examination - checks for any unusual changes in the cervix, uterus, vagina, ovaries.
HPV test –detects the presence of the HPV.
Pap test (Pap smear) a routine test for cervical screening.
Colposcopy -to examine the cells of the cervix.
Bioscopy - tissue sample is removed for examination under a microscope.
Prevention and screening
Prevention and early detection are key to combating cervical cancer, here are some of the ways to reduce the risk:
Getting vaccinated against HPV at age 9–14 years.
Regular Pap test ( every 3 years for women aged 21-65).
Testing for HPV (every 5 years for women aged 30-65).
Practicing safe sex.
Treatment depends on the kind of the cancer and how far it has spread.
Chemotherapy - drugs are used to destroy the cancer cells and prevent its growth.
Radiation therapy - use of high energy rays to destroy the cancer.
Targeted therapy - uses medicine to attack specific chemicals in the cancer cells.
Immunotherapy - medicine that helps the immune system to kill the cancer cells.
Palliative care - special type of health care that helps you relieve pain and other symptoms.
Note: Cervical cancer is a preventable and treatable disease i.e. by getting vaccinated, practicing safe sex and getting regular screening.
You can significantly reduce your risk of developing cervical cancer.
If you experience any symptoms or concerns, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention.
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