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The End is not far
Together let ’ s eradicate cervical cancer !
Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women globally , with about 90 % of the new cases and deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries , causing a huge social and economic impact .
In Malaysia , Cervical cancer is the third most common cancer among women . It is also the second most common female cancer among Malaysian women aged 15 to 44 . Though cervical cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer , we still loose many precious lives to this disease as at least 40 % were detected only in stages 3 and 4 , due to lack of awareness . The recent pandemic has further worsened the scenario . Let ’ s address some basic questions on cervical cancer and its screening .
What causes cervical cancer ? The main cause of cervical cancer is infection with genital Human Papilloma virus or HPV .
What is cervical cancer screening ? Cervical cancer screening is a procedure by which changes in the cells of the cervix that could lead to cancer are detected . It is usually done by two methods namely ,
• Cervical cytology ( also called the Pap test or Pap smear )
• HPV ( Human Papilloma Virus ) DNA testing
Why is cervical cancer screening needed ? Screening is done to detect pre-cancer changes that can occur years before the actual cancer develops . This is one of the very few cancers that can be diagnosed at the precancerous stage which means that it can be diagnosed years before the actual cancer appears and can be treated thus preventing the formation of cancer .
How do I lower my risk of getting cervical cancer ?
• Taking HPV vaccine ( ideally , before onset of sexual activity )
• Get regular Pap tests and follow up , if necessary
• Limit your number of sex partners
• Choose a sex partner who has had no or few prior sex partners
• Do not smoke cigarettes
• Keep a healthy diet and lifestyle
• Use condoms consistently and correctly during sexual activity
With an increased awareness and appropriate implementation of key strategies like HPV vaccination and regular screening , ending this cancer is well within our reach . Together , let ’ s do it !
By Dr Vinodhini Bhaskaran , Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist , ParkCity Medical Centre .
GlobalHealthAsiaPacific . com ISSUE 1 | 2023
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