Download App

Sensitive teeth

Pathology Imaging Gynaecology Wellness Preventive HealthCare

Prevention is Power Raising Awareness on HPV and Cervical Cancer

  • January 06, 2025
  • 11 Views
SHARE

Prevention is Power: Raising Awareness on HPV and Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is a significant health concern globally, and its impact is particularly severe in countries like India, where it ranks as the second most common cancer among women. Each year, 123,907 women are diagnosed, and 77,348 women lose their lives to this preventable disease. The primary cause of cervical cancer is the human papillomavirus (HPV), a virus that is responsible for most cervical cancer cases worldwide. Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, observed every January, aims to shed light on this preventable disease, emphasizing the importance of early detection, vaccination, and lifestyle choices that can help reduce risks.

What is HPV?

HPV, or human papillomavirus, is a group of over 200 related viruses. Some of these viruses are responsible for causing genital warts, while others are linked to different types of cancers, including cervical cancer. HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI), and nearly all sexually active individuals will contract it at some point in their lives. In India, around 5% of women carry high-risk strains like HPV-16 and HPV-18, which significantly increases their risk of developing cervical cancer.

Types of HPV Infections

HPV infections are broadly categorized into two types:

  1. Low-Risk HPV: These strains, such as HPV 6 and HPV 11, typically cause genital warts but are not associated with cancer.
  2. High-Risk HPV: These are cancer-causing strains, with HPV 16 and HPV 18 being the most dangerous. These strains are responsible for 70% of cervical cancer cases worldwide.

HPV infections often have no symptoms and can clear up on their own. However, when high-risk strains persist in the body, they can lead to abnormal changes in cervical cells, increasing the risk of cervical cancer.

Causes of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer develops when cells in the cervix grow uncontrollably due to genetic changes caused by persistent HPV infection. While HPV is the leading cause, there are several additional risk factors that can increase susceptibility to cervical cancer:

  • Multiple sexual partners: Increases the likelihood of HPV exposure.
  • Weakened immune system: Makes it harder for the body to fight off HPV infections.
  • Smoking: Chemicals in tobacco can damage cervical cells, making them more vulnerable to cancer.
  • Long-term use of birth control pills: Prolonged use has been linked to a higher risk of cervical cancer.
  • Early sexual activity: Increases the chances of contracting HPV.

Symptoms of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer develops slowly, often without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. This is why regular screenings are crucial for early detection. However, if symptoms do appear, they are typically divided into early-stage and late-stage symptoms.

Early-Stage Symptoms:

  • Irregular vaginal bleeding, including bleeding between periods, after intercourse, or after menopause
  • Unusual vaginal discharge that may be watery, bloody, or have a foul odour
  • Pain during intercourse

Late-Stage Symptoms:

  • Pelvic pain or pain during urination
  • Swelling in the legs
  • Weight loss and fatigue
  • Loss of appetite
  • Difficulty urinating or passing stool

Since early symptoms can be mild or mistaken for other conditions, many cases of cervical cancer are not diagnosed until the cancer has progressed. This highlights the importance of regular Pap smears and HPV testing.

Why Vaccination is a Highly Effective Solution

One of the most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer is through the HPV vaccine. The vaccine protects against the most common high-risk strains of HPV, particularly HPV 16 and HPV 18, which cause the majority of cervical cancer cases.

Key Facts About the HPV Vaccine:

  • The vaccine is most effective when given before an individual becomes sexually active.
  • It is recommended for both girls and boys starting at age 9 and up to age 26.
  • The vaccine can still benefit adults up to age 45 who have not been previously vaccinated.
  • It protects against genital warts and other HPV-related cancers, including anal, throat, and vulvar cancers.

Countries with high vaccination rates have already seen a significant drop in cervical cancer cases, demonstrating the vaccine’s life-saving potential.

6 Important Tips to Prevent Cervical Cancer

In addition to vaccination, there are several steps individuals can take to reduce their risk of cervical cancer:

  1. Regular Screenings: Schedule routine Pap smears and HPV tests to detect abnormal cell changes early.
  2. Practice Safe Sex: Use condoms and limit the number of sexual partners to reduce the risk of HPV transmission.
  3. Quit Smoking: Smoking weakens the immune system and increases the risk of cervical cancer.
  4. Maintain a Healthy Immune System: Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep to keep your immune system strong.
  5. Get the HPV Vaccine: Ensure that you and your children are vaccinated to protect against the most dangerous strains of HPV.
  6. Be Aware of Symptoms: Know the warning signs of cervical cancer and seek medical attention if you notice any unusual changes.

Cervical cancer is preventable, yet it continues to affect thousands of women in India and around the world. The key to reducing cervical cancer rates is awareness, prevention, and early detection. The HPV vaccine is a powerful tool in preventing the most dangerous strains of HPV, and regular screenings can catch abnormal cell changes before they progress to cancer.

This January, during Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, let’s commit to spreading knowledge about HPV and cervical cancer. By taking proactive steps like getting vaccinated, practicing safe sex, and undergoing regular check-ups, we can work toward a future where cervical cancer is no longer a leading cause of death among women.

 

Download App

Site by Intermind