Cervical cancer is a serious health issue for women, particularly in India. This type of cancer affects the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus. The main cause of cervical cancer is the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection. This cancer usually takes years to develop, starting from changes in cervical cells that become precancerous over time.
In India, there are over 511 million women aged 15 and older, and cervical cancer is a major concern. Each year, around 123,907 women are diagnosed with the disease, and sadly, about 77,348 lose their lives to it. Cervical cancer ranks as the second most common cancer among women in the country.
Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
Early-stage cervical cancer often does not show clear symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they can be mild and similar to other conditions. Look for signs like:
- Abnormal bleeding between periods or after menopause
- Longer or heavier periods
- Pelvic or lower back pain
- Pain during sex
- Vaginal bleeding after intercourse
- Changes in vaginal discharge, like an unusual odor or color
As the disease progresses, symptoms may worsen and can include blood in urine, severe fatigue, leg swelling, and unexplained weight loss. If you experience any of these symptoms, consult a healthcare provider for guidance.
Preventing Cervical Cancer
Making some lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of cervical cancer. Here are some effective strategies:
- Vaccination: The HPV vaccine can significantly lower the risk of developing cervical cancer. It’s best to get vaccinated before becoming sexually active.
- Safe sex practices: Using condoms can help reduce the risk of HPV transmission, though they do not completely eliminate the chance of infection. It’s wise to limit the number of sexual partners.
- Quit smoking: Smoking can weaken the immune system, making it tougher to fight off HPV infections. Quitting smoking lowers this risk.
- Regular screenings: Regular Pap smears and HPV tests can catch abnormal cervical cells early, allowing for timely treatment.
- Healthy lifestyle: Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress contribute to a strong immune system, which helps fend off HPV.
- Avoid douching: Douching can upset the natural vaginal environment and may increase the risk of infections.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the cancer’s stage and the patient’s health. In the early stages, surgery may be recommended to remove the cervix or just the tumor. Radiation therapy can be used alone or with surgery for more advanced cases.
For locally advanced or advanced cervical cancer, chemotherapy is often combined with radiation. New treatments, like immunotherapy, help the immune system fight cancer. If the cancer is advanced, palliative care can assist in managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
Understanding the link between lifestyle and cervical cancer is crucial. By making informed choices, we can support women’s health and work towards a future where cervical cancer is less of a threat.
Source link
treatment options cervical cancer,lifestyle changes cervical cancer,HPV prevention,cervical cancer symptoms,Cervical cancer
