Doctors here emphasised on making women aware of various preventive measures, including regular screening and vaccination, to combat the deadly cervical cancer.
Speaking on the occasion of the International Women’s Day observed here on Saturday, Dr Santosh Mishra (Obstetrics and Gynecology) said, “Cervical cancer is a type of cancer which affects the cervix, the lower most portion of the uterus. Unlike other cancers, where the cause most often is unknown, cervical cancer is caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV). HPV infection usually resolves spontaneously, but if untreated, these may progress to cervical cancer over a period of 20-30 years.”
Sharing more insights on the disease Dr Mishra said: “Cervical cancer could happen to any sexually active woman, young or old. Since the symptoms usually don’t show up early, the disease is often mistaken for a lesser serious health problem. It is never too early to protect yourself against it. Women need to be more educated and alert about cervical cancer and should go for regular screening and vaccination.”
Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers that can be prevented. Effective interventions against cervical cancer exist, including vaccination, screening and treatment of pre-cancer and invasive cancer, he said. As per reports, cervical cancer kills 67,477 women every year in the country while it contributes 23 per cent to the world incidences of cervical cancer with 122,844 new cervical cancer cases diagnosed every year in India.