Cervical Cancer Awareness at Clina-Lancet
Cervical Cancer Awareness
Cervical cancer is a serious health concern that affects women around the world. The purpose of this article is to provide information about cervical cancer, its causes, and treatments, along with ways to raise awareness and prevent it.
Knowing more about cervical cancer can help ensure its early detection and successful treatment. This article will describe the basics of cervical cancer, including risk factors, symptoms, early detection methods, and the importance of raising awareness. By understanding these facts, we can better protect ourselves from this devastating disease.
What is Cervical cancer?
The cervix is the lowermost part of the uterus (womb) that leads to the vagina. (It connects the Vagina to the Womb.)
Cervical cancer happens when healthy cells on the surface of the cervix change or get infected with the human papillomavirus (HPV) and grow out of control, forming a mass called a tumor. Long-term infections with HPV on the cervix can result in Cancer, leading to a mass or tumor on the cervix.
A tumor can be cancerous or benign. A cancerous tumor is malignant, meaning it can spread to other parts of the body. A benign tumor is one that will not spread.
Any of the following could be signs or symptoms of Cervical cancer for you to watch out for:
- Blood spots or light bleeding between or following periods
- Menstrual bleeding that is longer and heavier than usual
- Bleeding after intercourse, douching, or a pelvic examination
- Increased vaginal discharge
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Bleeding after menopause
- Unexplained, persistent pelvic and/or back pain
If you notice any or all of these symptoms, please visit the hospital so that your doctor can check for the following tests used to diagnose Cervical cancer:
1. Bimanual pelvic examination and sterile speculum examination: your doctor will check for any unusual changes in the patient's cervix, uterus, vagina, ovaries, and other nearby organs
2. Pap Smear test: During a Pap test, the doctor gently scrapes the outside and inside of the cervix, taking samples of cells for testing.
3. HPV typing test: An HPV test is similar to a Pap test. The test is done on a sample of cells from the cervix. The doctor may test for HPV at the same time as a Pap test or after Pap test results show abnormal changes to the cervix. Certain types or strains of HPV, called "high-risk HPV," such as HPV16 and HPV18, are seen more often in women with cervical cancer and may help confirm a diagnosis.
4. Colposcopy: Colposcopy can also be used to help guide a biopsy of the cervix. During a colposcopy, a special instrument called a Colposcope is used. The Colposcope magnifies the cells of the cervix and vagina, similar to a microscope. It gives the doctor a lighted, magnified view of the tissues of the vagina and the cervix.
5. Biopsy: A biopsy is the removal of a small amount of tissue for examination under a microscope. Other tests can suggest that cancer is present, but only a biopsy can make a definite diagnosis.
Key Takeaway’s for Cervical Cancer
In conclusion, it is important to be aware of the risk factors associated with Cervical cancer and the available ways to protect oneself. Vaccines, regular screenings, and lifestyle changes could all contribute to reducing the risk of developing Cervical cancer.
As more individuals become aware on this subject, the faster we can work together to eliminate this disease. Awareness is key when it comes to understanding and preventing Cervical cancer. So let us all make a pledge today to stay informed about Cervical cancer and raise awareness in our community.
Credit Content by Dr.Kenechi Adinnu Ebubechukwu