By Yuvaap Team Publish Feb 2, 2024
YUVAAP
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that affects the cells in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus. The human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection, is what causes it.
1. Vaginal bleeding following menstruation, intercourse, or menopause. 2. Periods are heavier and longer. 3. Vaginal discharge that may be thick and smelly. 4. Pelvic or intercourse pain.
– HPV, a sexually transmitted infection, is the most common cause of cervical cancer. – HPV spreads through sexual contact and can lead to cancer. – Uncontrolled infection can cause cervix cells to transform into cancerous ones.
There are two main types of cancer of the cervix: 1. Squamous cell carcinomas 2. Adenocarcinomas. About 80% to 90% of cervical cancers are Squamous cell carcinomas, while 10% to 20% are Adenocarcinomas.
– Lack of regular Pap smears or HPV vaccinations. – Smoking. – Weakened immune system. – Long-term use of birth control pills. – Early sexual activity. – Multiple sexual partners and unprotected sex.
– Stage I: Cancer found in the cervix, small and unspread. – Stage II: Cancer spreads beyond the cervix and uterus. – Stage III: Cancer spreads to the lower vagina, possibly to the pelvic wall, ureters, and lymph nodes. Stage IV: Cancer spreads to the bladder, rectum, bones, or lungs.
– Get the HPV vaccine (if you are eligible). – Use condoms or other barrier methods when you have sex. – Limit your sexual partners. – Stop smoking and using tobacco products.
– Early and non-bulky disease: Surgery, sometimes chemoradiation therapy. – Small tumours: Cone biopsy, sometimes hysterectomy. – Locally advanced disease: Radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Metastatic disease: Chemotherapy or palliative care alone.