What is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It is one of the most common types of cancer affecting women and can be caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). In the Philippines alone, cervical cancer is the second most common type of cancer among Filipino women, accounting for approximately 20% of all female cancers in the country. In 2020, it was estimated that there were 9,100 new cases of cervical cancer in the Philippines, with 4,000 deaths due to the disease.
What Causes Cervical Cancer?
Nearly all cases of cervical cancer are a result of infection with specific high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV can be contracted through any genital skin-to-skin contact, sexual activities such as vaginal, anal, or oral sex, and sharing of sex toys. The risk is higher for women, those that have weakened immune systems, smokers, and those that have not had their HPV vaccines.
In the Philippines context, the high incidence of this type of cancer is due to a combination of factors, including the obese aforementioned, but also mostly because of a lack of awareness about the disease, limited access to preventive services such as the HPV vaccine and cervical cancer screenings, and cultural attitudes that may discourage women from seeking medical attention.
Is There a Way to Prevent This?
One of the best ways to prevent cervical cancer is to get vaccinated against HPV. The HPV vaccine is recommended for both girls and boys, starting at the age of 11 or 12. It is also important to get regular cervical cancer screenings, such as a PAP test or HPV test, especially if your family has a history of cancer. These tests can detect abnormal cells on the cervix before they turn into a tumor, allowing for early treatment.
Other ways to lower your risk of developing cervical cancer include:
- Practicing safe sex
- Not smoking
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and weight
- Practicing safe sex
- Limiting your number of sexual partners
It's important to note that not all cases of cervical cancer can be prevented, but these preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of developing the disease.
What are the Symptoms?
Cervical cancer often has no symptoms in its early stages, which is why regular screenings are important. However, some common symptoms of advanced cervical cancer include:
Abnormal vaginal bleeding: This can occur after sexual intercourse, between menstrual periods, or after menopause.
Pelvic pain: A persistent discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvis.
Pain during sexual intercourse: This can be a sign of cervical cancer or another condition.
Increased vaginal discharge: This can be watery, bloody, or have a foul odor.
Fatigue: Feeling excessively tired or weak can be a symptom of advanced cervical cancer.
It is important to seek medical attention if any of these symptoms persist as they can be indicative of other conditions as well. Early detection and treatment of cervical cancer can improve the chances of survival and prevent cancer cells from spreading.
Be More Informed!
Despite the many challenges in detecting and treating cervical cancer, there have been efforts to raise awareness about cervical cancer and improve access to preventive services in the Philippines. For example, the Department of Health has launched a nationwide program to provide HPV vaccines to young girls, and there are initiatives to increase the number of women who receive cervical cancer screenings.
It is important for women, especially mothers, to take advantage of these resources and to educate themselves about the dangers of cervical cancer and the steps they can take to prevent it. By taking control of their cervical health, they can help reduce their risk of developing this disease and ensure that they can continue to care for their families for years to come.
Consult your doctor to know more about Cervical Cancer.