Cervical Cancer: A vaccine preventable cancer!

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women. It is a cancer of the lower part of uterus called cervix or the birth canal. It is one of the cancers which is preventable by a vaccine to a greater extent just like an infection. We will discuss here the various causes associated with cervical cancer and how you can make sure that you, your daughter or any female in your family have a lesser chance of developing this cancer.

Factors associated with Cervical Cancer

1. Human Papilloma Virus is associated with 80 percent of cervical cancer. Thankfully there is a vaccine for this infection.

2. Multiple sexual partners and not using condoms

3. Smoking is the second most important causative factor associated with Cervical Cancer.

4. Poor  hygiene

Symptoms to diagnose it early:

a. Vaginal bleeding or discharge

b.Painful sexual intercourse

If you have any of these symptoms, consult a doctor. He/she will do a very simple test and clear your doubts.

Now what can you do about preventing cervical cancer is the most important thing one must consider. We need to be aware of only three things.

1.HPV Vaccine The most important thing is Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccination. It can reduce your chances of developing Cervical Cancer by a whopping 70%. But the important point to remember is that it should be given before the infection develops.
 So the ideal age to get this vaccine is at the age of 10-20 years or before marriage. We need to give three injections at 0, 2 and 6 months and you are good to go. HPV vaccine costs anywhere between Rs 1000 and Rs 2000 but is is worth the investment. Consult your family physician for this.

HPV Vaccine: Saving Lives

2. Regular Pap smear.It is a simple procedure where a brush like instrument is used to take some cells from cervix and look for any changes. It is a very simple and painless procedure, but you may have a little discomfort. It is recommended to get a Pap smear done every 3 years after the age of 25 years and you are good to go. By doing this you have already decreased the risk of developing cervical cancer and if at all, it will be caught at an early stage.

Pap Smear: Simple, Yet effective

3. Use condoms and maintain a good hygiene.

4. Quit Smoking

Even if someone develops Cervical Cancer, do not worry. Help is available and there are a lot of good treatments available. Stay safe and Stay healthy.

If you have any doubts about cervical cancer or you want to know about any other health issue, contact us or post a comment. Suggestions would be appreciated.

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