The National Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI) is evaluating the possibility of vaccinating older women against cervical cancer. (Image: Shutterstock)
Cervical cancer’s impact can be reduced through preventive measures, timely screening and treatment
Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of death around the world. As per World Health Organization, it is the fourth most common cancer in women globally with around 6.6 lakh new cases and around 3.5 lakh deaths in 2022. The disease also affects thousands of women in India every year. However, despite its severity, cervical cancer is curable if detected in an early stage and its vaccination can prove highly effective. This emphasises the importance of awareness, education, and proactive health measures taken toward reducing the risk of cervical cancer.
Cervical cancer in India: Prevalence
– According to Globocan data of 2020, 123,907 women were diagnosed with cervical cancer reported annually in India.
– 17% of global cervical cancer deaths, accounting for almost 77,348 deaths per year
– Primarily, cervical cancer affects women aged between 15-44 in India as per the HPV information centre.
Cervical Cancer Symptoms
In the early stages, cervical cancer symptoms often remain undetectable making regular screening crucial. Symptoms that may demand screening for Cervical cancer as per WHO are:
- Unusual vaginal bleeding between periods, after intercourse, or post-menopause.
- Abnormal vaginal discharge like watery, thick, or blood-tinged.
- Pain during sexual intercourse.
- Pelvic pain unrelated to the menstrual cycle.
- Heavier and more extended menstrual periods.
- Unexplained weight loss with fatigue and loss of appetite.
- Vaginal discomfort, difficulty in urinating or passing stool.
- Constant swelling in the legs.
Cervical Cancer Causes/Risk Factors
The primary risk factor for cervical cancer is infection due to human papillomavirus (HPV), especially HPV 16 and 18. As per WHO, Most sexually active people may develop HPPV infection at some point but the body’s immune system fights it. However, if the infection results in a tumour of cells, it may lead to cancer.
Risk factors include engaging in early sexual activity, i.e. before the age of 18 or with multiple sexual partners.
Immune system suppression by HIV infection
Smoking
Exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES), a medicine used in the 1950s to prevent miscarriage.
Multiple pregnancies.
Cervical Cancer Diagnosis Cervical cancer can be detected by the following tests:
Pap Smear Test: This detects abnormal cervical cells.
HPV DNA Test: Determines high-risk HPV.
Colposcopy: Examines the cervix to detect abnormality.
Biopsy: Confirms abnormal/cancerous cells.
Imaging Tests: Diagnostic tests like CT, MRI, or PET scan the stages of the disease.
Cervical cancer treatment options
Treatment varies depending on the stage of cancer and the patient’s health conditions.
- SurgeryConization (removal of early-stage cancerous tissues), Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus and cervix) and radical hysterectomy (removal of the cervix, tissues around the cervix, womb, fallopian tubes and top part of the vagina).
- Radiation TherapyExternal Beam Radiation or Brachytherapy (internal radiation) along with chemotherapy in advanced cases.
- ChemotherapyDrugs like Cisplatin are often paired with radiation therapy.
- Targeted Therapy and ImmunotherapyNewer treatments involving the drug bevacizumab for targeted therapy and Pembrolizumab for immunotherapy.
Preventive measures for cervical cancer
- Regular screening after the age of 30
- Practice safe sex (by using condoms)
- Limit sexual partners
- Avoid smoking
Maintain a healthy immune system
Participate in government-initiated Government-initiated immunisation programs to increase awareness about it.
Cervical cancer’s impact can be reduced through preventive measures, timely screening and treatment. Awareness and education are also crucial factors in mitigating its risk.
