According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cervical cancer is the fourth most prevalent cancer in women and is caused by abnormal development of cells in a woman’s cervix or the entry to the uterus through the vagina. In 2020, an estimated 604,000 women worldwide were diagnosed with cervical cancer, and approximately 342,000 died as a result of the disease. Cervical cancer, while common, is one of the most curable cancers if diagnosed early. In the later stages, the condition can be managed with adequate medication.
Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is the cause of 99% of cervical cancers
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated in her speech presenting the Interim Budget for 2024 that the central government intends to push immunization for girls aged 9 to 14 to prevent cervical cancer. Last year, the Centre stated that an India-made quadrivalent vaccination may be evaluated for inclusion in the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) as a twin dose regimen for adolescent girls. Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is the cause of 99% of cervical cancers. It is a frequent sexually transmitted infection of the throat, genitals, and skin. According to the World Health Organization, almost all sexually active persons will become infected at some point in their lives, usually without symptoms.
In most situations, the immune system removes the virus from the body. However, prolonged infection can cause the formation of aberrant cells, which can progress to cancer. While aberrant cells take 15-20 years to develop into cancer, in women with weakened immune systems, the process can be completed in 5-10 years. Young moms, hormonal contraception users, smokers, and those with other sexually transmitted illnesses are all at greater risk of developing cervical cancer. According to WHO, the following are the common symptoms related to cervical cancer:
- Unusual bleeding between periods, after menopause, or after sexual intercourse
- Increased or foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- Symptoms like persistent pain in the back, legs, or pelvis
- Weight loss, fatigue and loss of appetite
- Vaginal discomfort
- Swelling in the legs
A diagnostic test by a medical professional is important to confirm the presence of cervical cancer. Treatments include surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy as well as secondary care for pain management.
