Cervical Cancer Awareness Month: Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones

 


Cervical cancer is one of the leading cancers among women in India, but the good news is that it is highly preventable and treatable when detected early. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and informed.

The Facts: Incidence and Mortality in India

  • Cervical cancer ranks as the second most common cancer among Indian women.
  • Every year, over 1.23 lakh women in India are diagnosed with cervical cancer, and approximately 77,000 women lose their lives to this disease.
  • Many cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, making awareness and early detection crucial.

What Causes Cervical Cancer?

The primary cause is persistent infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that spreads through skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact.

Vaccination: Your First Line of Defense

  • HPV vaccines are safe, effective, and recommended for girls between 9-14 years (can be given up to 26 years).
  • These vaccines can prevent most cervical cancers caused by HPV.
  • Discuss vaccination with your doctor to protect yourself and your children.

How to Reduce Your Risk

  1. Vaccination: Ensure eligible individuals get vaccinated against HPV.
  2. Regular Screening: Pap smear and HPV testing can detect changes early.
    • Women should begin screening at age 21 or within 3 years of becoming sexually active.
  3. Practice Safe Hygiene: Use barrier protection during sexual activity.
  4. Healthy Lifestyle: Avoid smoking, eat a balanced diet, and maintain good immunity.

Recognizing Symptoms Early

Cervical cancer often shows no symptoms in its early stages. However, watch out for:

  • Unusual vaginal bleeding (e.g., after intercourse or between periods).
  • Foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
  • Pelvic pain or discomfort during intercourse.
  • Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding.

When to See a Doctor

  • If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, consult a doctor immediately.
  • Even without symptoms, regular gynecological check-ups can save lives.

How to Approach a Doctor

  1. Visit a gynecologist or an oncologist specializing in women's cancers.
  2. Share your medical history and symptoms openly.
  3. Ask about screening tests like a Pap smear or HPV test.
  4. Discuss your vaccination status and consider getting vaccinated if eligible.

Together, We Can Beat Cervical Cancer

By increasing awareness, promoting vaccination, and ensuring regular screening, we can significantly reduce the burden of cervical cancer in India. Take action today to protect yourself and encourage others to do the same.

Let’s join hands this month to spread the word and save lives. 🌼

Cervical cancer is very common in North Karnataka especially in and around Hubli and Dharwad regio. So, it's very essential to know about the cancer very much. 


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