As per medical statistics, cervical cancer accounts for 18.3% of all cancers affecting Indian women, with over 122,000 new cases diagnosed annually. Despite this, screening rates remain low due to lack of awareness, social hesitation, and limited access to preventive care. Cervical cancer remains one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when detected early. Globally, the World Health Organization reported approximately 604,000 new cases of cervical cancer in 2020, making it the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide. Research suggests that many women tend to seek help only after symptoms such as abnormal bleeding or pelvic pain arise, often indicating more advanced disease. This must change. India alone contributes nearly one-third of global cervical cancer deaths, largely due to delayed screening and limited awareness. Let us understand essential healthcare tips for early detection and care of cervical cancer.
Understanding Cervical Cancer
The cells of the cervix, the lower portion of the uterus that joins the vagina, are where cervical cancer begins to grow. High-risk forms of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a virus spread by sexual contact, are the primary cause in the great majority of cases. While the majority of HPV infections go away on their own in one to two years, some high-risk strains might linger and cause aberrant cell changes that, if left untreated, could develop into cancer.
Persistent HPV infection is more common in women with compromised immune systems, such as those with untreated HIV, uncontrolled diabetes, or chronic disease. This is why regular cervical checkups play a critical role in early detection of cervical cancer, long before symptoms appear.
Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Health Issues
In its early stage, cervical cancer may not produce symptoms. In the advanced stages, the following symptoms may be observed:
- Bleeding between menstrual periods
- Bleeding after sexual intercourse
- Uterine
- Functional pelvic pain
- Discharge from the vagina accompanied by a strong odour
- Pain or discomfort during intercourse
These symptoms can also occur due to non-cancerous conditions, but they should never be ignored. Consulting a qualified gynecologist in Navi Mumbai at UMC Hospitals ensures timely evaluation and appropriate care.
Risk factors of Cervical Cancer
Certain factors increase the risk of developing cervical cancer, including:
- Early initiation of sexual practices
- Several sexual partners
- Long-term use of oral contraceptive pills
- Other sexually transmitted infections
- Smoking
- Weakened immune system
Knowledge about risk factors allows women to make good health decisions.
Cervical Cancer Prevention Tips
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HPV Vaccines
HPV immunization is nowadays the most effective method of prevention. This is recommended in girls aged 9-14 years before the onset of sexual activity. It has been shown that immunization is highly effective in preventing cervical cancer that is HPV associated. This is a worthwhile preventative effort in women’s health. -
Regular Cervical Screening
A Pap smear or an HPV test can identify precancerous lesions years before cancer occurs. In India, it is generally advised to undergo cervical screening from age 30 onwards, or even earlier if there is higher risk factor presence in women. Routine follow-up visits for cervical cancers still form an important part of early cervical cancer identification. -
Preventing HPV Infection
Simple lifestyle measures can significantly reduce risk:- Quit smoking
- Avoid alcohol intake
- Practice safe sex, including consistent condom use
- Maintain good genital hygiene
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Early Detection and Timely Treatment
Depending on the early identification of irregularities in the cervix, the treatments could be quite easy and successful. Cryotherapy, Thermal Ablation, LEEP (Large Loop Excision of the Transformation Zone) procedures, and cone biopsies are elected according to the stages of the diseases among the patients. Early-stage cervical cancer treatment has excellent outcomes when managed promptly. -
Healthy Lifestyle
Nutritional balance, physical activity, sufficient hydration, and maintaining an ideal body weight help boost the body’s immune system, ensuring that it is able to remove HPV infections effectively. -
Education and Awareness
Apart from the personal aspect, awareness at the community level is necessary. Raising awareness about cervical health, promoting the benefits of cervical screen programs, and encouraging other members of the family to protect themselves from cervical diseases can be effective methods of controlling the prevalence of cervical cancer.
Cervical Cancer Treatment at UMC Hospitals
January is observed as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, reminding us that elimination of cervical cancer is an achievable goal. Through vaccination, screening, early detection of cervical cancer, and equitable access to treatment, we can dramatically reduce preventable deaths. At UMC Hospitals, we offer the best cancer treatment in Navi Mumbai, combining vaccination, advanced screening, early diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment. Medical experts at our Department of Medical & Surgical Oncology are committed to empowering women with the right knowledge and compassionate care, supporting their long-term physical, emotional, and reproductive well-being. Consult our experts for timely preventive care and advanced treatment for cervical cancer.
