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Cervical Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, Prevention Measures Of One Of The Most Common Cancers In Women

Verified Medically Reviewed By: Dr Kusum Lata, senior consultant- obstetrician and gynaecologist, advanced laparoscopic surgeon at Motherhood Hospitals, Gurgaon

It is important to keep in mind that the human papillomaviruses (HPV) vaccine is safe and effective against cervical cancer. It is the best line of defense against this cancer that affects millions of women worldwide.

Written by Prerna Mittra | Updated : December 2, 2024 3:30 PM IST

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Where Does Cervical Cancer Happen?

Cervical cancer develops in a woman's cervix, which is the entrance to the uterus from the vagina. Almost all cervical cancer cases are linked to an infection with high-risk human papillomaviruses (HPV) -- an extremely common virus transmitted through sexual contact. Although most infections with HPV resolve spontaneously and cause no symptoms, persistent infection can cause cervical cancer in women, warns Dr Kusum Lata, senior consultant- obstetrician and gynaecologist, advanced laparoscopic surgeon at Motherhood Hospitals, Gurgaon.

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How Common Is Cervical Cancer?

According to the doctor, cervical cancer is the fourth most-common cancer in women. In 2022, an estimated 6,60,000 women were diagnosed with cervical cancer worldwide; about 3,50,000 women died from it. Effective primary (HPV vaccination) and secondary prevention approaches (screening and treating precancerous lesions) will prevent most cancer cases. Also Read - Cancer Symptoms In Women Prevention Tips: 5 Lifestyle Changes To Stay Safe From Cervical Cancer At Any Age

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How To Reduce Chances Of Developing This Cancer?

Dr Kusum says cervical cancer begins on the outer layer of the cervix. This cancer is commonly linked to an infection with HPV, which is transmitted through sexual intercourse. To reduce your chances of developing cervical cancer, it is advisable to have routine Pap smear screenings and get vaccinated against HPV.

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Symptoms Of Cervical Cancer

The initial symptoms are heavy, watery, or bloody vaginal discharge that could have an unpleasant smell. One may notice vaginal bleeding following sexual intercourse, during intervals between menstrual cycles, or after menopause. Discomfort during sex is also a sign. If the cancer has progressed to surrounding tissues or organs, one may experience painful urination, which may include blood. Other possible signs are diarrhea, rectal pain or bleeding during bowel movements, fatigue, weight loss and decreased appetite, malaise, and a dull back pain, the doctor states. Also Read - Cervical Cancer Prevention: Diet and Cervical Cancer, What is the link?

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Risk Factors For Cervical Cancer

As mentioned earlier, certain strains of HPV are known to cause cervical cancer. Reducing your chances of contracting HPV can decrease the risk of this cancer. Engaging in sexual activity at a younger age and having multiple sexual partners may raise the risk of HPV infection. Smoking increases the chances of cervical cancer. Likewise, a weakened immune system hampers the body's ability to combat infections effectively.

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Diagnosis And Treatment Of Cervical Cancer

Pap smear and HPV test can diagnose cervical cancer. One may also need to undergo a CT scan, MRI scan, and blood and urine tests. Radiation, chemotherapy, surgery, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy will be used to treat cervical cancer. Women need to take the HPV vaccine as per the doctor’s advice to prevent this cancer. Also Read - Cervical Cancer: The Hidden Epidemic For Women In India