CERVICAL CANCER
Cancer that begins in the cervix cells is called cervical cancer. The cervix is the uterus’ lower, narrow end (womb). The uterus and vagina are connected by the cervix (birth canal). Typically, cervical cancer progresses gradually over time. The cervical tissue undergoes changes known as dysplasia, in which abnormal cells start to appear in the tissue, before cancer develops in the cervix. If left unchecked or untreated, the abnormal cells may eventually develop into cancer cells, grow deeper into the cervix, and spread to nearby tissues.
The cervix has two main parts:
The outer portion of the cervix that is visible during a gynecologic exam is called the ectocervix . Squamous cells, which are tiny, flat cells, cover the ectocervix.
Risk Factors:
The endocervix is the portion of the cervix that is inner and creates the canal that joins the vagina and uterus. Mucus-producing columnar glandular cells cover the endocervix.
Cervical cancer and well-known risk factors for the disease are frequently linked. While some risk factors are avoidable, others are not. Among the risk elements are:
1. An irregular screening history: Women who haven’t had Pap tests on a regular basis are more likely to develop cervical cancer.
2. HPV Infection: Certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) can infect the cervix and spread through sexual contact. The main risk factor for cervical cancer is HPV infection in the cervical region.
3. Smoking: Smoking cigarettes is linked to a higher risk of cervical cancer.
4. Sexual History: Women who start having sex before the age of 16 and women who have had numerous sexual partners are more likely to contract HPV and develop cervical cancer.
5. HIV Infection: Cervical cancer is more likely to strike HIV-positive women than HIV-negative ones.
Symptoms of cervical cancer?
Early-stage cervical cancer typically has no symptoms or signs. More severe cervical cancer symptoms and signs include:
1.Vaginal bleeding following menstruation, in between periods, or after menopause
2.Vaginal discharge that is watery, bloody, and may be heavy and odorous
3.Pain in the pelvis or during sexual activity
4.possibly heavier and longer-lasting menstrual cycles.
5.Urination that is painful or difficult, sometimes with blood in the urine.
6.Fatigue, weight loss, and decreased appetite
How is cervical cancer diagnosed?
Cervical cancer diagnosis typically involves a combination of tests and procedures, including:
Pap test: During a Pap test, cells from the cervix are taken and examined for any abnormalities that might point to the presence of precancerous or cancerous cells.
An HPV test : looks for the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common cause of cervical cancer, in the cells of the cervix.
Colposcopy: During a colposcopy, a medical professional looks at the cervix under a special microscope to check for any abnormal areas that might require additional testing or treatment.
Biopsy: A biopsy may be carried out to remove a small sample of cervix tissue for further testing if abnormal cells are found during the colposcopy or Pap test.
Imaging tests: Imaging tests like an MRI, CT scan, or ultrasound
Stages of Cervical Cancer
Stage I: Only the cervix is affected .
Stage II: Cancer in stage II has progressed past the cervix but has not yet reached the pelvic wall.
Stage III: The lower third of the vagina has been affected, and the pelvic wall and nearby lymph nodes may also be affected.
Stage IV: The bladder, rectum, or other areas of the body have been affected by the cancer.
Treatment
Treatment for cervical cancer is based on many factors including the stage of the disease, the age of the patient and general health of the woman, and the woman’s desire for future childbearing. In its earliest stages, the disease is curable by removing the cancerous tissue.
The three main treatments for cervical cancer are :
Radiation, Chemotherapy and Surgery. A variety of chemotherapeutic drugs, or combinations of them, are used. Sometimes radiation and chemotherapy are used before or after surgery. Laser surgery, Cone biopsy, Simple hysterectomy are the most common kinds of surgery for cervical cancer.
Can cervical cancer be prevented ?
Yes, Women can take some measures to prevent cervical cancer. Receiving regular gynecological exams, quitting smoking,HPV Vaccination and getting Pap tests are the best way to prevent cervical cancer.
What are the survival rates for cervical cancer?
According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year relative survival rate for all stages of cervical cancer combined is approximately 68%. However, the survival rate varies greatly depending on the stage at diagnosis.
