WHAT IS CERVICAL CANCER?

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix which is  the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina.

Types Of Cervical Cancer: Can be defined based on the type of cells involved:

• Squamous cell carcinoma
• Adenocarcinoma
• Sometimes, both types of cells are involved and very rarely, cancer can occur in other cells in the cervix

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF CERVICAL CANCER?

Early stage cervical cancer shows no signs. Some symptoms are: 

• Vaginal bleeding after intercourse, between periods or after menopause
• Mild or heavy watery, bloody vaginal discharge with foul odour
• Pelvic pain or pain while intercourse

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

Diagnosis :  Screening tests for Cervical Cancer include:

• Pap test
• HPV DNA test
• Biopsy
• Electrical wire loop
• Staging exams (X-rays, CT scans,MRI and PET)
• Visual examination of bladder and rectum

Treatment : Early-stage cervical cancer is typically treated with surgery

• Simple hysterectomy. The cervix and uterus are removed along with the cancer in very early-stage cervical cancer.
• Radical hysterectomy.The cervix, uterus, part of the vagina and lymph nodes in the area are removed with the cancer through Minimally invasive surgery.
• Surgery that preserves the possibility of becoming pregnant also may be an option, in cases of very early-stage cervical cancer without lymph node involvement.

Other treatment protocols may include use of Radiation therapy, and/or Chemotherapy and

Follow-up care comprising palliative and supportive care

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

1. Risk factors for cervical cancer include:

• • Many sexual partners
  • Early sexual activity
  • A weak immune system
  • Smoking, etcetera

    2. Preventive measures:  To reduce the risk of cervical cancer:

• • Get vaccinated against HPV
  • Have routine Pap tests
  • Practice safe sex
  • Quit Smoking