What is Cervical Cancer? Know its Symptoms, Risks, and Prevention

In a recent and sad event, Bollywood star Poonam Pandey lost her life to cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is a serious health issue affecting women globally. It occurs when abnormal cells grow in the cervix, the part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Recognizing the symptoms, understanding the dangers, and taking preventive measures are crucial for early detection and successful treatment of cervical cancer.

Early Detection

Cervical cancer may not exhibit symptoms in its early stages, highlighting the importance of regular screenings. As the disease progresses, women may experience abnormal vaginal bleeding, happening between periods, after sex, or after menopause. Recognizing these five key early warning signs is vital for every woman:

Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding: Bleeding between periods, after sex, or after menopause could be a sign of cervical cancer, but it might also result from hormonal changes or infections.
Symptoms:

Early-stage cervical cancer may progress slowly without showing any signs. However, as the disease worsens, women may encounter the following symptoms:

Unusual Vaginal Bleeding: Bleeding throughout the menstrual cycle, during sexual activity, or after menopause.

Pelvic Pain: Discomfort before or after sexual activity.

Changes in Vaginal Discharge: Unusual changes in color, consistency, or odor.

Early Action

Women must stay vigilant for any unusual changes in their reproductive health and seek medical assistance upon noticing symptoms.

Risk Factors

Cervical cancer develops due to various factors, with persistent infection by high-risk strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) being the primary cause. Additional risk factors include:

Smoking: Increases the risk and accelerates the progression of cervical cancer.

Weakened Immune System: Diseases like HIV/AIDS and immune-weakening drugs can elevate the risk.

Early Sexual Activity: Engaging in sexual activity at a young age raises the risk of HPV infection.

Many Sexual Partners: Having multiple sexual partners increases the risk of HPV transmission.

Oral Contraceptive Use: Prolonged use of oral contraceptives may pose a higher risk.

Understanding the signs, risks, and preventive measures for cervical cancer is crucial for women's health. Regular screenings, awareness of symptoms, and adopting preventive measures can contribute to early detection and successful treatment, offering a better chance of overcoming this serious condition.