Cervical cancer : its early detection & remedies

 


Cervical cancer can be detected at an early stage.  It remains in the pre-cancerous stage for 10 to 15 years.  As this disease is permanent in most women.  So they are advised to have a Pap test every three years.  Also, women over the age of 30 should also be tested for HPV.



 Cervical cancer symptoms-


 Unfortunately, early stage cervical cancer has no symptoms.  Symptoms begin to appear when cancer reaches an advanced stage.  So regular checkup should be done so that the disease can be detected at the initial stage.  Irregular periods, bleeding outside of menstruation, bleeding after intercourse, bleeding after menopause, foul-smelling discharge etc. are symptoms of uterine cancer.


 How to prevent cervical cancer -


 Doctors say that to reduce the risk of cervical cancer, one should get vaccinated against HPV.  The vaccine is available for girls and women aged 9 to 20 years.  The vaccine is given as two injections for ages 9 to 14.  Then 14 to 26 year olds need three injections.  However, even after vaccination, regular screening is required.  Remember, the vaccine protects 70 to 80 percent against cervical cancer.  Therefore, screening is very important for early detection and timely treatment.



 Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine


 Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common cause of cervical, vaginal and vulvar cancer.

 Although this vaccine is reserved for children aged 11 to 12, it can be given starting at age 9.

 The HPV vaccine is also recommended for all girls under the age of 26.  This vaccine is not given after 26 years of age.



However, if an adult between the ages of 27 and 45 is at risk of HPV infection, the vaccine can be obtained after consulting a doctor about the potential benefits of vaccination.  However, HPV vaccination provides less benefit in this age group.

 Note that the HPV vaccine prevents new HPV infections, but does not treat existing infections or disease.  This is why the HPV vaccine works best when given before exposure to HPV.  However, one should get regular screenings for cervical cancer even after getting the vaccine.



 Screening test


 Only two screening tests can detect pre-cancer or cervical cancer –

 A Pap test (or Pap smear) looks for cell changes in the lining of the cervix, which can lead to cervical cancer if not treated properly.

 The HPV test looks for the virus (human papillomavirus) that can cause these cell changes.


 Both tests can be done at a doctor's office or clinic.  If you have low income or don't have health insurance, you can also get free or low-cost screening tests through the CDC's National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program.


 More steps to help prevent cervical cancer


 Your risk of cervical cancer can also be reduced by following the below steps –


 If you're 26 or younger, get an HPV vaccine if you haven't already.


 Do not smoke.

 Use a condom during intercourse.

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