Exclusive: Cervical Cancer In India, Doctor Shares Preacautions And Treatments That One Needs To Be Aware Of

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Recently, a 21-year-old recently married woman, Aarti, who was having irregular bleeding and postcoital bleeding (early signs of cervical cancer), was treated at Madhukar Rainbow Hospital in Delhi. However, the test results showed that she has tested negative for cervical cancer. Eventhough today Aarti is living a healthy life, surely, this one is a conversation starter when it comes to cervical cancer cases in India.

According to a study by Lancet journal, approximately 570 000 cases of cervical cancer and 311 000 deaths from the disease occurred in 2018. Cervical cancer was the fourth most common cancer in women. The highest incidence was estimated in Eswatini, with approximately 6·5% of women developing cervical cancer before age 75 years.

China and India together contributed more than a third of the global cervical burden, with 106 000 cases in China and 97 000 cases in India, and 48 000 deaths in China and 60 000 deaths in India.

Dr Rinku Sen Gupta Dhar, Senior Consultant, Obstetrician & Gynecologist, Madhukar Rainbow Children's Hospital was in charge of her case and she did an exhaustive examination which revealed hat there could be some infection in her cervix (mouth of the uterus) and prescribed her some local vaginal antibiotics.

Further, she informed Arti about personal hygiene, barrier contraception, and Pap smear, which is also called a Pap test, a screening test for carcinoma cervix or cervical cancer in women.

As it is usually suggested, cervical cancer vaccines should be given between the age group of 9 to 14 years, before sexual activity begins. However, Dr. Rinku prescribed the same to Aarti, as a precaution as she is young, recently married and clarified that individuals who have missed the recommended age limit can still benefit from the vaccine.

To her surprise and relief, Aarti exhibited no symptoms after antibiotic treatment and she was relieved to know and understand how to prevent cervical infections. These infections have a high possibility of leading to precancerous and cancerous lesions if persistent.

Despite widespread misconceptions linking the disease to the neck, it primarily affects the cervix, the neck of the uterus. Renowned expert Dr Rinku emphasizes the need for a comprehensive strategy to tackle cervical cancer, focusing on four key steps: screening, vaccination, safe practices, and early treatment.

Role Of Vaccination In Preventing Cervical Cancer

Dr. Rinku underlined the important role of vaccination in preventing cervical cancer and said that 90% of the population needs vaccination. It is meant to target the 9-15 age group, which represents a key demographic to eliminate the disease. This vaccine primarily targets human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a major cause of cervical cancer.

Highlighting the preventable nature of cervical cancer, Dr. Rinku emphasized the importance of early detection through regular checkups. She explained that HPV infection, which is often symptomless, can persist for years and can lead to cancer if not addressed.

Although the vaccine is highly effective, continued monitoring and follow-up is required to ensure continued protection. Globally, 80 percent of women are infected with the HPV virus by the age of 50, but not all HPVs cause cancer. Only 2 types of HPV cause cancer, which are type 16 and 18, and are known to be responsible for 70% of cervical cancers and precancerous cervical lesions.

Risk Factors Of Cervical Cancer

Sexual behavior, multiple partners, and smoking are recognized as risk factors that can increase the likelihood of HPV infection. Vaccination, good immunity, and healthy practices provide a strong defense against cervical cancer. Dr. Rinku encourages the adoption of screening programs in sync with global best practices for early detection and resolution of the disease.

The conversation extends to the challenges of reaching the 9-15 age group for vaccination. As mentioned before, Dr Rinku clarifies that individuals who have missed the recommended age limit can still benefit from the vaccine.

Acknowledging the role of the government in making vaccines more accessible, Dr. Rinku emphasizes the need for continued efforts in cervical cancer prevention. She discusses the importance of emotional well-being and support within relationships, which contributes to overall empowerment and health. Therefore, only through collective effort, which includes increased awareness, vaccination, and regular screening, one can tackle cervical cancer.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.