Introduction to Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer begins in the cells lining the cervix, which connects the uterus to the vagina. It develops slowly through precancerous changes in normal cervical cells that may go undetected for years. But with proper screening and early detection, it is one of the most successfully treatable cancers. You can get best oncologists in Bangalore for cervical cancer treatment at Cyetcare cancer hospital bangalore.
Types and Causes
Cervical cancers originate from both squamous cells and glandular cells in the cervix. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type. Cervical cancer is almost always caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection through sexual contact. Long-lasting HPV infections lead to precancerous changes in cervical cells.
Risk Factors
Some of the main risk factors for cervical cancer include:
- HPV infection - High risk strains like HPV 16 and 18 are linked to 75% of cervical cancers.
- Multiple sexual partners or early sexual activity.
- Smoking - Nicotine impairs the immune system and cervix's ability to clear HPV infection.
- Weakened immunity - HIV infection or taking immunosuppressant drugs.
- Family history of cervical cancer.
- Long term use of oral contraceptives.
Symptoms
Early cervical cancers usually have no signs or symptoms. Advanced cancer can cause:
- Vaginal bleeding between periods or after menopause.
- Watery or bloody discharge from the vagina.
- Pain during urination or intercourse.
- Pelvic or back pain.
Screening and Diagnosis
- Pap smear - Cells collected from the cervix are examined for precancerous changes. Done every 3-5 years.
- HPV DNA test - Checks for HPV infection. Can be done alone or with pap smear.
- Colposcopy - Magnified view of the cervix to assess abnormal areas seen on pap smear.
- Biopsy - Removal of tissue sample for examination by a pathologist. Confirms precancer or cancer.
Staging
Staging determines the extent of cancer's spread:
- Stage 0 - Precancerous changes in cells.
- Stage I - Cancer limited to the cervix.
- Stage II-III - Cancer extends beyond the cervix into nearby tissues.
- Stage IV - Cancer spreads to distant organs like lungs or liver.
Treatment
- Surgery - Early small tumours can be removed with a cone biopsy, hysterectomy, or trachelectomy.
- Radiation - External beam radiation and internal brachytherapy are commonly used.
- Chemotherapy - Combined with radiation in advanced cancers to enhance effects.
- Targeted therapy - Works on specific cancer proteins and genes. Used in advanced cancers.
Most cases are treated with surgery or a combination of radiation and chemo based on stage. Fertility-sparing options may be offered to young patients.
Prevention
- HPV vaccination - Recommended for girls aged 11-12 and can be given from age 9. Also approved for boys now. Protects against cancer-causing HPV strains.
- Safe sex practices and limiting partners - Reduces HPV exposure. Condoms provide partial protection.
- No smoking.
- Regular pap smears - Essential for early detection at a precancerous stage when cure rates are highest.
Prognosis
When detected very early, cervical cancer is highly treatable and associated with long-term survival. The 5-year survival rate for the earliest stage is 93%. Overall 5-year survival is about 66%, highlighting the importance of screening and early diagnosis before cancer advances.
Conclusion
In summary, cervical cancer is a preventable disease through HPV vaccination, safe sexual practices, and early detection from regular pap smears. Catching precancerous changes early and managing them promptly provides the best protection against cervical cancer and its potentially devastating outcomes.
