Cervical cancer: Early detection and treatment

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research's National Cancer Registry Programme (ICMR-NCRP), the estimated number of cervical cancer cases in the country in 2023 was more than 3.4 lakh.

- Dr. Kiran Coelho

There is a higher prevalence of cervical cancer in both, urban and rural areas that requires immediate attention. Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus. It further connects to the vagina. The particular type of cancer tends to develop slowly over time. It all starts with significant changes in cells present in the cervix. The primary cause of cervical cancer is stubborn infection with certain types of HPV (human papillomavirus) infection. It is a common virus that can be easily passed from one person to another through sexual contact. In most cases, your body is capable of fighting this infection. But when this particular infection lasts for a longer duration then it can increase the likelihood of cervical cancer as it causes abnormal changes in the cervix.

The symptoms may include abnormal bleeding, pain during sexual intercourse, or unusual discharge. Women are advised not to ignore these warning signs.