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Cervical cancer remains a major health concern for women worldwide and is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths. In India alone, a woman dies from cervical cancer every eight minutes—a sad number that highlights the need for knowledge and prevention. The good news? Cervical cancer is mostly preventable and treatable, especially when found early. At the heart of prevention lies understanding the strong connection between HPV and cervical cancer.
In this blog post, we’ll explore cervical cancer staging as well as practical and effective steps you can take to reduce your risk, from vaccinations and regular screenings to lifestyle choices that support long-term health.
Understanding Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is a kind of cancer that affects the cervix, which is the lower portion of the uterus attached to the vagina. HPV infection is the primary cause of cervical cancer. About 80 to 90% of cervical cancers develop in the squamous cells of the cervix, while the remaining cancer develops in the glandular cells. This cancer develops slowly, taking years for precancerous cells to turn cancerous.
Cervical Cancer Staging
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Stage I: Cervical cancer is detected only in the cervix.
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Stage IA: The cancer can only be seen with a microscope or a biopsy.
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Stage IB: The cancer is visible to the naked eye during an examination.
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Stage IB1: The size of the cancer is smaller than 4 cm.
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Stage IB2: The size of the cancer is larger than 4 cm.
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Stage II: The cancer has spread beyond the cervix to side tissue near the cervix or into the top of the vagina.
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Stage III: Cancer has gone past the cervix into the pelvic side wall, causing swelling or obstruction of urine flowing into the bladder, or has impacted the lower vagina.
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Stage IV: Cancer has gone beyond the cervix to sites such as the bladder and rectum or a distant organ like a lung or liver.
Ways to Lower Your Risk of Cervical Cancer
With the high prevalence and mortality of cervical cancer in India, it becomes important to be aware of preventive measures to lower the cancer risk.
Human Papillomavirus Vaccination (HPV)
Getting HPV vaccinations protects against HPV strains that cause cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers. It is indicated for preteens aged 9 to 14 years, but can be taken up until age 26. This cervical cancer shot helps prevent the development of new infections, but it does not protect against existing infections or diseases. Therefore, undergoing regular screening for cervical cancer is essential even if you have received HPV vaccinations.
Screening Tests
Regular cervical cancer screening with a Pap smear or HPV test is vital to detect precancerous and cancerous changes in the cervical tissue early. A healthcare professional uses a special tool to gently scrape or brush the cervix to gently remove cells for testing.
It is recommended for women to start getting Pap tests when they turn 21 or when they become sexually active and continue to get them every three years until they turn 65. Individuals between 30 to 65 years old considered at high risk for getting cervical cancer may undergo both Pap smear and HPV testing every 5 years.
Quit Smoking
Smoking raises the risk of cervical cancer and makes it harder to treat. The harmful substances in tobacco smoke damage the DNA in cells, including those of the cervix, leading to the development of cancer. Women who smoke are twice as likely as non-smokers to get cervical cancer. Avoid smoking to safeguard your health and reduce your chances of developing cervical cancer.
Practice Safe Sex
The HPV virus is transferred through sexual contact; thus, using a condom may be a safer alternative to reduce its transmission. Even though it is possible for HPV infection to develop in areas covered or not covered by a condom, it can prevent the risk of developing cervical cancer. Also, limiting the number of sexual partners or choosing partners who have had no or few previous partners can help reduce your risk.
Consume a Healthy Diet
Start consuming a healthy diet to boost your immune levels. Consume a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to reduce your risk of developing cervical cancer. These foods are rich in antioxidants, which may benefit the fight against cancer.
Reduce Obesity
Regular physical exercise and keeping a healthy weight are critical for your overall health. Being overweight or obese can increase an individual’s risk of developing cervical cancer.
Practice Good Hygiene
Good hygiene habits can prevent the spread of HPV infections. Therefore, keep your genital area hygienic to prevent the development of infections that may cause cervical cancer.
Conclusion
Cervical cancer is a serious but preventable disease. Understanding the disease's aetiology, cervical cancer staging, and appropriate management can successfully minimise the burden of cervical cancer death. Visit Manipal Hospitals, Mukundapur, for cervical cancer screening or treatment. Book an appointment today.
FAQ's
Some of the symptoms of cervical cancer include unusual bleeding or discharge, pelvic pain, pain while urinating, urine changes, blood in urine, sudden loss of weight and appetite, painful bowel movements, swelling in the legs, fatigue, and mild backache.
Smoking, weakened immune system, sexually transmitted diseases, long-term use of birth control pills, low socio-economic status, multiple sexual partners, poor dietary choices, and family history may increase one’s risk for developing cervical cancer.
Being infected with HPV does not guarantee that you will end up with cervical cancer, as the body’s immune system fights against the infection and eliminates it within two years. Most cervical malignancies are caused by the HPV 16 and 18 strains. Taking the HPV vaccination can eliminate the risk of developing cervical cancer.
Cervical cancer is the most treatable sickness if diagnosed early. Even in advanced stages, cervical cancer can be controlled and treated with appropriate measures.
Various treatment options are available for cervical cancer, which includes Surgery, Chemotherapy, Radiation Therapy, Immunotherapy, and Targeted Therapy.
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