Cervical Cancer: Understanding, Prevention, and Treatment

Cervical cancer, one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide, is a significant health concern. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) GLOBOCAN 2022 data, there were 127,526 new cases of cervical cancer and 77,000 deaths globally.

Early detection through regular screening is crucial in preventing the predisposition of cervical cancer. Thanks to advancements in medical technology, cervical cancer screening is now possible from the comfort of your home.

Understanding Cervical Cancer and HPV

This blog explores the nature of cervical cancer and HPV, the importance of regular screening, and introduces Accuris CerviSave, a revolutionary home-based screening tool.

What is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer occurs in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. The primary cause of cervical cancer is the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing cervical cancer, including a weakened immune system, smoking, oral contraceptive use, poor genital hygiene, multiple pregnancies, and early marriage.

Causes and Risk Factors

Cervical cancer is primarily caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection. There are several strains of HPV, but a few high-risk types are responsible for most cervical cancer cases. Other risk factors include:

• Multiple Sexual Partners: Having multiple sexual partners increases the risk of HPV infection.
• Early Sexual Activity: Early sexual activity can increase the risk of HPV infection.
• Weakened Immune System: Conditions like HIV/AIDS can compromise the immune system and make it harder to fight off infections.
• Smoking: Smoking is linked to squamous cell cervical cancer.
• Long-term Use of Birth Control Pills: Using oral contraceptives for an extended period may slightly increase the risk.

Symptoms

In the early stages, cervical cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include:

• Unusual vaginal bleeding (after intercourse, between periods, or after menopause)
• Watery, bloody vaginal discharge with a foul odour
• Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse

Complications of Cervical Cancer

If not detected and treated early, cervical cancer can spread to other parts of the body, causing serious complications.

Treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy can impact fertility and have various side effects. Early detection and treatment generally lead to a very good prognosis.

Diagnosis

Regular screening is crucial for early detection. The primary methods include:

1. Pap Smear (Pap Test)

The Pap smear, or Pap test, is a crucial screening tool for detecting precancerous and cancerous cells in the cervix. There are two types of Pap tests:

Conventional Pap Smear:

• Procedure: During a pelvic exam, a healthcare provider collects cells from the cervix using a small brush or spatula.
• Analysis: The collected cells are smeared onto a glass microscope slide and sent to a laboratory for examination under a microscope.
• Purpose: This test helps detect abnormal cells that may develop into cancer if left untreated.

Liquid-Based Cytology (LBC):

• Procedure: Similar to the conventional Pap smear, cells are collected from the cervix. However, instead of smearing them on a slide, the cells are rinsed into a vial containing a preservative solution.
• Analysis: In the lab, the vial is processed to create a thin layer of cells on a slide for microscopic examination.
• Advantages: LBC reduces the number of unsatisfactory samples and allows for additional testing, such as HPV DNA testing, from the same sample.

2. HPV DNA Test

The HPV DNA test detects the presence of high-risk HPV types known to cause cervical cancer. It is often performed in conjunction with a Pap smear.

Standard HPV DNA Test:

• Procedure: Cells are collected from the cervix in a manner similar to the Pap smear.
• Analysis: The sample is tested for the DNA of high-risk HPV strains.
• Purpose: This test identifies women at higher risk of developing cervical cancer, even before abnormal cells appear.

Accuris CerviSave (Cervical cancer screening from menstrual blood):

• Procedure: This innovative test uses menstrual blood to screen for high-risk HPV types.
• Analysis: Collected menstrual blood is tested for the presence of high-risk HPV DNA.
• Advantages: This method offers a non-invasive alternative for HPV testing and can be done at home, providing convenience and potentially increasing screening rates.

3. Colposcopy

Colposcopy is a follow-up procedure used when Pap smear results are abnormal. It allows for a closer examination of the cervix.

• Procedure:
  • The patient lies on an exam table, similar to a Pap smear.
  • A colposcope, which is a special microscope, is positioned to view the cervix.
  • The healthcare provider applies a solution to the cervix that highlights abnormal areas.
  • If suspicious areas are found, a biopsy may be performed during the colposcopy.
• Purpose: Colposcopy helps identify the exact location and extent of abnormal cells, guiding further treatment or biopsy.

4. Biopsy

A biopsy involves taking a small sample of cervical tissue for detailed examination. There are different types of cervical biopsies, including:

Punch Biopsy:

• Procedure: During a colposcopy, the healthcare provider uses a special instrument to pinch off small samples of cervical tissue.
• Purpose: To examine the tissue for abnormal or cancerous cells.

Endocervical Curettage (ECC):

• Procedure: A small instrument called a curette is used to scrape tissue from the cervical canal.
• Purpose: To obtain cells from the canal that may not be visible during colposcopy.

Cone Biopsy (Conization):

• Procedure: A cone-shaped piece of tissue is removed from the cervix, either using a scalpel (cold knife conization) or a loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP).
• Purpose: To remove and examine abnormal tissue. It can also be used as a treatment for precancerous lesions.

Prevention

Preventive measures are effective in reducing the risk of cervical cancer: 

1. HPV Vaccination: Vaccines like Gardasil and Cervarix protect against the most dangerous strains of HPV.
2. Regular Screenings: Routine Pap smears and HPV tests can detect precancerous changes early.
3. Safe Sexual Practices: Using condoms and limiting the number of sexual partners can reduce the risk of HPV infection.
4. Quit Smoking: Avoiding tobacco can lower the risk of cervical and other cancers.

Treatment Options

The treatment of cervical cancer depends on the stage of the disease, overall health, and personal preferences. Common treatments include:

1. Surgery: Options include a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) or a more conservative approach like conization (removal of a cone-shaped section of abnormal tissue).
2. Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays are used to target and kill cancer cells.
3. Chemotherapy: Drugs are used to kill cancer cells, often in combination with radiation therapy for advanced stages.

Conclusion

Cervical cancer is a preventable and treatable disease, especially when detected early. Regular screenings, HPV vaccinations, and adopting healthy habits play crucial roles in prevention.

If you experience any symptoms or have risk factors, consult with your healthcare provider to ensure timely and appropriate care.

For a visual understanding, watch this informative video on cervical cancer at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wN-ANr03R3Q

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