Caritas Cancer Institute, Kottayam, Kerala
drjojovjoseph@gmail.com
Connect on WhatsApp

Articles

Cervical Cancer Awareness: Taking Action to Prevent and Protect

As January marks Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, it is crucial to shed light on this prevalent yet preventable women's health issue. Cervical cancer affects thousands of women globally each year, underscoring the urgent need for education, screening, and vaccination programs. By understanding the risks, recognizing the early symptoms, and adopting preventive measures, we can make great strides in curbing the impact of cervical cancer.

Understanding Cervical Cancer:

Cervical cancer primarily develops in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus, connecting it to the vagina. The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the leading cause of this type of cancer. HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection, and certain high-risk strains can lead to cellular changes in the cervix over time, potentially causing cancer.

Key Risk Factors:

While HPV infection is the primary risk factor, other factors may contribute to the development of cervical cancer. These include:

1. Lack of regular Pap tests: Women who fail to undergo regular Pap tests have a higher risk of not detecting precancerous or cancerous cells in their cervix. Regular screenings can effectively catch abnormalities before they develop into cancer.

2. Weakened immune system: A weakened immune system, caused by conditions like HIV/AIDS, organ transplants, or long-term steroid use, increases vulnerability to HPV and cervical cancer.

3. Smoking: Cervical cancer risks are higher among smokers. Chemicals found in tobacco smoke can damage DNA and weaken the immune system's ability to fight off HPV infection.

4. Oral contraceptive use: Long-term usage of some oral contraceptives may slightly increase the risk of cervical cancer. However, the benefits of using oral contraceptives generally outweigh this minimal risk.

Prevention is Key:

The good news is that cervical cancer can be prevented through various measures:

1. HPV vaccination: Vaccination against the most common strains of HPV helps protect against cervical cancer. Girls and boys typically receive the HPV vaccine around age 11 to 12, before they become sexually active. However, vaccination can still be beneficial for young adults and adults, as it protects against other HPV-related cancers.

2. Regular screenings: Pap tests, or cervical screenings, are essential for early detection of abnormal cell changes on the cervix. Promisingly, these screenings can identify precancerous cells, allowing timely intervention before cancer develops. It is recommended that women begin routine screenings at age 21 and continue regularly as advised by healthcare providers.

3. Safer sexual practices: Practicing safe sex by consistently using condoms and having fewer sexual partners can reduce the risk of contracting HPV.

4. Quit smoking: Given the increased risk of cervical cancer among smokers, quitting smoking is vital. Support resources and cessation programs can help individuals kick the habit.

Awareness and Advocacy:

To combat cervical cancer effectively, it is crucial to raise awareness and advocate for access to screening and vaccination programs. Education campaigns, social media initiatives, and community outreach can play a significant role in disseminating relevant information about prevention, screening, and available resources.

Conclusion:

Cervical cancer is a preventable disease that requires proactive measures from both individuals and communities. By prioritizing regular screenings, vaccinations, and adopting safer sexual practices, we can significantly reduce the burden of cervical cancer. This Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, let us join hands in promoting education, encouraging screenings, and advocating for a world free from preventable cervical cancer.