Everything You Need to Know About Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that affects the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It is the fourth most prevalent cancer in women overall and causes more than 300,000 fatalities yearly. But with early detection and treatment, cervical cancer may be avoided and cured. As a woman, it is important to understand the risk factors, symptoms, and screening options for cervical cancer.

This article will cover everything you need to know about the causes of cervical cancer, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. Whether you are looking to educate yourself or a loved one, this comprehensive guide will provide you with the knowledge and resources to take control of your health and well-being.

What is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer is cancer arising from the lower, narrow part of the uterus, which depicts the entrance to the womb.

Usually, cervical cancer staging is symptomless. If all symptoms occur, it is irregular menstrual bleeding in between periods or after sex, or after menopause.

The cells lining the cervix undergo changes that may or may not proceed to full-blown cancer. There is a strong correlation between HPV infection (human papillomavirus infection) with progression to cancer cervix. Almost all cases of cancer cervix are associated with prior HPV infection.

Earlier, the cancer cervix was prevalent in middle-aged women. Now the age group most prone is 35-55. It is rarely seen below 20 years. However, 20% of cases are above 65 years of age.

It has a strong genetic link, and a patient with a positive family history should subject herself to regular screening tests. If the mother or sister is affected, the risk is twofold more.

Risk Factors and Causes of Cervical Cancer

HPV infections are the most common causes of cervical cancer. These are of two types- low risk and high risk. Low-risk infections usually do not progress to cancers. High-risk infections can be detected on routine screening and can also present as lesions on the cervix, like cervical erosions, which can be treated by cryocautery, electrocautery, or sleep.

Lower age of sexual exposure and multiple sexual partners are definitely responsible for HPV infections and progression to symptoms of cervical cancer. Lower age at first pregnancy and long-term use of oral contraceptives can cause it.

Low socio-economic status, low education, smoking, and exposure to DES in the mother’s womb are also linked to cancer cervix. A person affected with HIV infection is 5-fold more at risk of cancer cervix. Detection of cancer cells can be done by conventional paps screening/ Liquid cytology + HPV testing. An experienced gynaecologist or the best cancer specialist in Delhi usually does this.

Once the cancer cells are detected, the next step is staging the cancer. This depends on the size of the tumour, depth of spread, and spread to lymph nodes. Also, spread to distant and neighbouring organs is looked into.

What are the Symptoms of Cervical Cancer?

Early cervical cancer staging is difficult to identify and sometimes lacks symptoms. It may take several years before signs of cervical cancer appear. The greatest strategy to prevent cervical cancer is to find abnormal cells during testing for the disease.

You should get a full gynaecological exam, including a Pap test if you experience unusual bleeding, vaginal discharge, or other unexplained signs of cervical cancer.

Cervical Cancer Staging

Your doctor will determine the stage of your cancer after a diagnosis. The stage reveals if and how far the cancer has spread if it has. Your doctor can identify the best course of treatment for you by staging your cancer.
Cervical cancer has four stages:

Cervical Cancer Treatment

If detected early, cervical cancer is treatable. It is possible to mix various therapies to increase their potency. There are four primary treatments:

Surgery

The goal of surgery is to eradicate as much cancer as possible. Sometimes a doctor can only remove the portion of the cervix that has cancerous cells. Surgery for more advanced cancer may entail removing the cervix and other pelvic organs.

Radiation Therapy

High-energy X-ray beams used in radiation attack cancer cells. It could come from an instrument outside the body. A metal tube inserted into the uterus or vagina can also be used to deliver it from within the body.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy employs medication to eradicate cancer cells all over the body. The best cancer specialist in Delhi provides this therapy in cycles. For a period, you’ll receive chemo. After that, the treatment will end so that your body has time to heal.

Targeted Therapy

A more recent medication called bevacizumab (Avastin) functions differently from chemotherapy and radiation. Inhibiting new blood vessel development prevents the tumour from spreading and surviving. The administration of this medication frequently occurs during chemotherapy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding cervical cancer’s signs, symptoms, and risk factors is crucial for early detection and successful treatment. Regular screenings, such as Pap tests and HPV tests, can help identify cervical cancer at an early stage, and cervical cancer staging can help determine the best course of action for treatment.

By staying informed and taking preventative measures, such as getting vaccinated against HPV, women can take control of their health and reduce their risk of developing cervical cancer.

If you still have any doubts about cervical cancer, PSRI Hospital is the best cancer hospital in Delhi. We have the best gynaecologist in Delhi NCR who have years of experience giving their patients the best treatments. Book your consultation today.

FAQs

Q1. What are the Early Signs of Cervical Cancer?

Abnormal vaginal bleeding, such as bleeding between periods, after intercourse, or after menopause, may be one of the earliest indications of cervical cancer. Vaginal atypical discharge in colour, consistency, or odour can also occur in women.

Q2. What are the Risk Factors for Cervical Cancer?

Risk factors for cervical cancer include infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), early sexual activity, multiple sexual partners, smoking, a weakened immune system, and a family history of cervical cancer.

Q3. Can Cervical Cancer be Prevented?

Yes, cervical cancer can be prevented. Getting vaccinated against HPV can reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer. Regular screenings, such as Pap tests and HPV tests, can also help detect cervical cancer at an early stage when it is more easily treatable.

Q4. What is Cervical Cancer Staging?

Cervical cancer staging is a process that helps determine the extent of cancer spread. It considers the tumor’s size, how deeply it has invaded nearby tissues, and whether it has spread to other body parts. This information helps doctors determine the best course of treatment.

Q5. What are the Symptoms of Advanced Cervical Cancer?

In advanced stages, cervical cancer may cause symptoms such as pelvic pain, back pain, leg swelling, fatigue, weight loss, and loss of appetite. However, these symptoms may be non-specific and indicate other health issues, so seeing a doctor for a proper diagnosis is important.