Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide, making awareness, timely screening, and effective treatment crucial. The cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina, may develop abnormal cells that, if untreated, can progress into cervical cancer.
At Saukhyam Hospital, we specialise in providing Cervical Cancer Surgery in Borivali, along with comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic care. Our expert team ensures accurate diagnosis, personalised treatment plans, and advanced surgical procedures tailored to each patient’s condition.
Causes of Cervical Cancer:
Cervical cancer is primarily caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), a group of viruses that can infect the genital area. HPV is commonly transmitted through sexual contact. While most HPV infections resolve on their own, persistent infection with high-risk strains of HPV can lead to changes in the cells of the cervix, which may eventually develop into cancer.
Key Causes and Risk Factors:
- HPV Infection: The leading cause of cervical cancer. HPV types 16 and 18 are responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases.
- Multiple Sexual Partners: Having multiple sexual partners increases the risk of HPV infection.
- Weakened Immune System: Women with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV, are at higher risk.
- Smoking: Smoking contributes to cervical cancer risk by weakening the immune system and causing cell damage in the cervix.
- Early Sexual Activity: Beginning sexual activity at an early age increases the likelihood of HPV exposure.
- Long-term Use of Oral Contraceptives: Long-term use of birth control pills can slightly increase the risk of cervical cancer.
- History of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): A history of other STIs, like chlamydia or gonorrhea, can increase the risk.
Understanding these risk factors can help individuals take preventive measures, such as getting the HPV vaccine and practising safe sexual habits.
Symptoms of Cervical Cancer:
In its early stages, cervical cancer often has no symptoms, which is why regular screening is essential for early detection. However, as the cancer progresses, several symptoms may manifest. If you experience any of the following, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly:
- Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding: This may include bleeding between periods, after intercourse, or after menopause.
- Unusual Vaginal Discharge: A foul-smelling discharge that may be watery, bloody, or mucus-like can be a sign of cervical cancer.
- Pain during Intercourse: Painful sex may be an indication of cervical cancer or other reproductive health issues.
- Pelvic Pain: Persistent pelvic pain or discomfort that doesn’t have a clear cause could be a symptom of advanced cervical cancer.
- Urinary Issues: Difficulty urinating or blood in the urine can indicate the spread of cancer to nearby tissues.
- Swelling in the Legs: Swelling or discomfort in the legs may occur if cancer spreads to the lymph nodes.
- Fatigue and Unexplained Weight Loss: Severe fatigue and unexplained weight loss can occur in advanced stages of cancer.
Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer:
1. Pap Smear Test
A Pap smear (or Pap test) is a routine screening test for cervical cancer that involves collecting cells from the cervix to look for abnormalities. The test is recommended for women starting at the age of 21 and should be repeated every three years, or more frequently if advised by a healthcare provider.
2. HPV Test
This test looks for the presence of high-risk HPV strains in the cervix. It can be done alongside a Pap smear to help identify women who are at a higher risk of developing cervical cancer.
3. Colposcopy
If a Pap smear or HPV test indicates abnormal results, a colposcopy may be performed. This procedure uses a special magnifying instrument (colposcope) to examine the cervix more closely and identify areas of concern.
4. Biopsy
During a colposcopy, the doctor may take a small tissue sample (biopsy) from the cervix for laboratory analysis. A biopsy helps confirm the presence of cancerous cells and determines the stage of the cancer.
5. Imaging Tests
If cervical cancer is confirmed, imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI may be conducted to assess the extent of the cancer and check for metastasis (spread to other parts of the body).
6. Lymph Node Sampling
Sometimes, lymph nodes are examined to check if cancer has spread beyond the cervix. This can be done through a biopsy or imaging tests.
Treatment of Cervical Cancer:
1. Surgery
Surgery is often the primary treatment for early-stage cervical cancer. The type of surgery depends on the stage of cancer and the woman’s health:
- Conization: Removal of a cone-shaped piece of tissue from the cervix containing abnormal cells.
- Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus, and possibly the cervix, ovaries, and lymph nodes, depending on the stage of cancer.
- Radical Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus, cervix, part of the vagina, and surrounding tissues, often recommended for more advanced cases.
2. Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. It can be used as a primary treatment or in combination with surgery. In advanced stages, radiation may also be used to shrink tumors before surgery or to kill remaining cancer cells after surgery.
- External Beam Radiation: Delivers targeted radiation to the tumor from outside the body.
- Brachytherapy: Involves placing a radiation source directly inside or near the tumour for more localised treatment.
3. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses drugs to destroy cancer cells or stop their growth. It may be used in combination with surgery and radiation therapy, especially for more advanced stages of cervical cancer. Chemotherapy can be administered orally or intravenously.
4. Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy
Targeted therapy and immunotherapy are newer forms of treatment that target specific cancer cells or help the immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells. These treatments may be an option for patients with advanced or recurrent cervical cancer.
Prevention of Cervical Cancer
Preventing cervical cancer is possible through vaccination and regular screening. The HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing the types of HPV that cause most cervical cancers. The vaccine is recommended for both boys and girls around the age of 11 or 12 but can also be administered to older individuals.
In addition to vaccination, regular Pap smears and HPV testing are essential for early detection, which significantly improves treatment outcomes.
Conclusion:
Cervical cancer is a serious health condition, but with early detection and modern treatment options, it is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers. At Saukhyam Hospital, we are dedicated to providing our patients with comprehensive care, from prevention and early detection through to advanced treatments. If you experience any symptoms of cervical cancer or have concerns about your risk, don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation.
Remember, early diagnosis is key. Regular screenings, vaccination, and a healthy lifestyle are essential to reducing the risk of cervical cancer. At Saukhyam Hospital, we are here to
we are dedicated to guiding our patients through every step of care — from prevention and early detection to advanced treatment options.
