Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Cervical cancer can develop when abnormal cells in the cervix grow uncontrollably, forming a mass of cells called a tumor. Over time, these cancer cells can invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, liver, and lungs.
In India, cervical cancer is the second most common type of cancer among women, with an estimated 122,000 new cases and 67,000 deaths reported each year.
Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer may have subtle symptoms and not appear until the cancer is in an advanced stage. Some common symptoms are:
- Vaginal Bleeding: Abnormal bleeding between periods, after sex, or after menopause.
- Unusual Vaginal Discharge: This may be watery, bloody, or have a foul odor.
- Pain During Sex: This may be caused by the cancer affecting the cervix or surrounding tissues.
- Pelvic Pain: This can occur in the lower abdomen or back, and may be a sign that the cancer has spread to nearby tissues.
- Urinary Problems: Cervical cancer can sometimes cause urinary issues, such as pain during urination or blood in the urine.
- Fatigue: This can be a symptom of many different health conditions, but it may also be a sign of advanced cervical cancer.
Risk Factors of Cervical Cancer
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection: HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause abnormal cell changes in the cervix, which can lead to cervical cancer.
- Age: Cervical cancer is prevalent in women over the age of 30.
- Smoking: Women who smoke have a higher risk of developing cervical cancer.
- Weak Immune System: Women with weakened immune systems, such as those who have HIV/AIDS or who have undergone an organ transplant, have an increased risk of developing cervical cancer.
- Family History: Women with a family history of cervical cancer are at higher risk of developing the disease.
- Sexual History: Women who have had multiple sexual partners, started having sex at a young age, or have had a partner with multiple sexual partners have a higher risk of developing cervical cancer.
- Use Of Oral Contraceptives: Long-term use of oral contraceptives may slightly increase the risk of cervical cancer.
- Socioeconomic Factors: Women from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may have a higher risk of developing cervical cancer due to factors such as limited access to healthcare and lower rates of cervical cancer screening.
Treatment of Cervical Cancer
The treatment of cervical cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and the individual’s health status. Some common treatment options for cervical cancer include:
- Surgery: Surgery is often the first line of treatment for early-stage cervical cancer. The type of surgery will depend on the stage and location of the cancer, but may include a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), or a trachelectomy (removal of the cervix).
- Radiation therapy: This process involves using high-energy X-rays or other types of radiation to kill cancer cells. This therapy may be used alone or in combination with surgery or chemotherapy.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be given before or after surgery or radiation therapy, or used in combination with radiation therapy.
- Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy is a type of drug treatment that targets specific molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. It may be used in combination with other treatments.
- Palliative care: Palliative care focuses on relieving symptoms and improving the quality of life for individuals with advanced cervical cancer. It may include pain management, emotional support, and other types of supportive care.
The choice of treatment will depend on several factors, including the stage of cancer, the individual’s age and overall health, and their personal preferences. At SanskritiOnco Care Hospital, we work with the individual to develop a treatment plan that is right for them.