Common Cancer In Women - How They Can be Prevented?

With the modernization of all economies around the world, one health hazard that has become one of the largest perils within both developed and developing nations is the incidence of cancers of the female reproductive system, especially cervical and breast cancer.

Cervical cancer ( Carcinoma Cervix)

Cervical cancer is the cancer of the cervix, which is the opening of the uterus and connects the uterus to the vagina. Indian women in particular are susceptible to cervical cancer as more than 1/3rd of the cervical cancer related deaths in the entire world happens here in India, which is about 74000 deaths annually. The leading cause for cervical cancer is HPV or Human Papillomavirus infection, which if left untreated and unchecked will result in cancer.

Alarming Signs of Cervical Carcinoma:

• Early lesions and precancerous lesions have no symptoms
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding such as bleeding after vaginal intercourse, bleeding after menopause, bleeding and spotting between periods or longer/heavier periods
• Abnormal vaginal discharge
• Pelvic pain
• Late stage disease may cause lower extremity swelling, problem with urine and/or stool passage

Screening Guidelines:

• Cervical cancer screening is most effective screening programme of any cancer disease resulting in significant decrease in mortality from carcinoma cervix
• United state preventive services task force (USPSTF) recommend cervical cancer screening starting at age 21 yrs.
• Between age 21-30 years cytology recommended at 3 year interval and HPV testing is not recommended.
• Between 30-65 years cytology every 3 year or cytology +HPV testing every 5 year.
• If previously adequately screened screening can be discontinued after 65 years.
• Women with prior total hysterectomy and no CIN can discontinue screening.

Risk Factors for Cervical Cancer-

The number one predisposing factor for cervical cancer is infection with the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Any factor which increases a woman’s risk of contracting Human Papilloma Virus will increase the risk of cervical cancer. These following factors increase a womans risk of getting Human Papilloma Virus (HPV):

1. Intercourse without barrier contraceptives.
2. Multiple sexual partners.
3. Sex with a partner that has penile warts.
4. Cigarette smoking doubles a womans risk of getting cervical cancer.

Treatment

Treatment options depend on the following:

1. The stage of the cancer.
2. The type of cervical cancer.
3. The patient's desire to have children.
4. The patient’s age.

For cervical cancer found early or for cancer found during the last trimester of pregnancy, treatment may be delayed until after the baby is born. If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult an Oncologist.