Cervical cancer is the second leading cause of cancer related death after breast cancer in young women between 20 to 40 years. The death rate due to this disease has declined with the development of scientific technology.
As apparent from the name, cervical cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow out of control in the lower part of the uterus that leads to the vagina. An early diagnosis can clearly prevent it from spreading.
Causes cervical cancer
Most cervical cancer is caused by a virus called human papillomavirus, or HPV usually transmitted during intercourse. HPV can remain in the body for a long time until it turns into a cancer at a later stage; which can be diagnosed through Pap tests.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms:
The symptoms of cervical cancer may include:
• Bleeding from the vagina that is not normal, or a change in your menstrual cycle.
• Bleeding when something comes in contact with your cervix
• Pain during sex.
• Vaginal discharge that is tinged with blood.
Diagnosis :
During a Pap test, a sample of cells from the surface of the cervix is taken to examine the cell changes. If a Pap test shows abnormal cell changes more tests will be taken to look for precancerous or cancer cells on your cervix.
Treatment
The treatment for most stages of cervical cancer includes:
- Surgery, such as a hysterectomy and removal of pelvic lymph nodes with or without removal of both ovaries and fallopian tubes.
- Chemotherapy.
- Radiation therapy.
A fatal as it sounds yet cervical cancer can be prevented by following ‘safe sex’ practices.
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