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Cervical Cancer: What You Need to Know

Cervical cancer, like other cancers, results from abnormal and unregulated growth of cells. It occurs around the cervix, the part of the female reproductive system that opens into the muscular uterus or womb.

The cervix is lined by two types of cells, namely: squamous cells, which are thin and flattened, and glandular cells, which have a column-shaped appearance.

Cervical cancers are mostly caused by long-lasting (persistent) infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV infects nearly all sexually active individuals at some point in their lives. Although the body’s immune system often fights the virus, cervical cancer may develop if the infection persists for a prolonged period.

Squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma are the two main types of cervical cancer, with each originating from abnormalities of the affected cells.

Certain factors or lifestyles can increase the chances of developing the cancer. These include tobacco smoking, multiple sexual partners, early exposure to sex, and maternal consumption of the teratogenic drug diethylstilbestrol (DES). The use of DES to prevent miscarriage in high-risk pregnancies has resulted in children from such pregnancies developing adenocarcinoma.

A Pap test or Pap smear can help in early detection. It involves examining cells taken from the cervix under a microscope for irregularities. A specific test for HPV is carried out if the Pap test is found to be abnormal.

The primary strategies for prevention are vaccination and regular screening. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends HPV vaccination before sexual exposure as an effective preventive measure against cervical cancer. It is recommended that both males and females get vaccinated.

Some of the most common symptoms include vaginal discharge, abnormal vaginal bleeding, vaginal odour, and pain.

Regular Pap tests are recommended because cervical precancers often do not show any symptoms until the disease has invaded deep into the cervix.

Cervical cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer. Treatment depends on factors such as age, stage of the disease, general health, and whether the woman wishes to preserve fertility.

The various treatment options include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. A specialist may recommend a combination of one or more of these options.

Cervical cancer is a common cancer among women. It is caused by persistent HPV infection transmitted during sexual intercourse. Routine Pap tests help in early detection.

While it is a serious cancer, early detection and prompt medical intervention can lead to successful treatment and prevent further complications.