CERVICAL CANCER
Cervical cancer develops slowly. It starts as a pre cancerous condition called dysplasia. This can be detected by a test known as pap smear and is 100% curable. Almost all cervical cancers are caused by a virus called Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) that is spread through sexual intercourse.
CERVICAL CANCER (CANCER OF THE MOUTH OF THE UTERUS)
- This is the 3rd most common cancer in women.
- 88% of cervical cancer deaths occur in Asia.
- Claims 8 women in every waking hour in India
- But it is the most preventable form of cancer in women
Cervical cancer develops slowly. It starts as a pre cancerous condition called dysplasia. This can be detected by a test known as pap smear and is 100% curable. Almost all cervical cancers are caused by a virus called Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) that is spread through sexual intercourse.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
- Early cancer may have no signs or symptoms but could be detected by pap smear or colposcopy.
- Vaginal bleeding after intercourse/ after menopause
- Irregular bleeding patterns
- Abnormal vaginal discharge (pale/watery/bloody/ foul smelling etc.)
- Advanced cases (back ache, fatigue, weight loss etc.).
DIAGNOSIS
Examination/papsmears/colposcopy/cone biopsies. Many more tests as your doctor advises.
TREATMENT
Treatment depends on stage, age of patient, desire to have children etc. Early cancer can be cured by removing cancer tissue and preserving the uterus so that a woman can have children. Other treatment approaches are Radical Hysterectomy, Pelvic Exenteration, Radiation etc.
PREVENTION
Gardasil/Cervarix are vaccines to prevent cervical cancer. Studies have shown that they appear to be effective.
