Cervical cancer remains one of the most prevalent and deadly cancers affecting women in India, accounting for nearly 60,000 deaths annually. Despite significant advancements in medical research, treatment options and preventive measures, the impact of cervical cancer continues to be devastating. This is largely due to misconceptions and a lack of awareness.
Does cervical cancer only affect older women?
Contrary to popular belief, cervical cancer is not exclusive to older women. While the majority of cases are diagnosed in women over 30, studies indicate that younger women, particularly those with early sexual activity or exposure to the human papillomavirus (HPV), the cancer-causing virus, are also at risk.
According to the National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP), 25 per cent of cervical cancer cases in India occur in women under 40. Regular screenings like Pap smears and HPV tests are critical for early detection, irrespective of age.
Are poor hygiene practices the primary cause?
While hygiene plays a role in overall reproductive health, the primary cause of cervical cancer is persistent HPV infection. Data from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) shows that nearly 70% of cervical cancer cases in India are caused by high-risk HPV types. Vaccination against HPV, coupled with regular screenings, significantly reduces the risk.
Does cervical cancer treatment guarantee a cure?
Treatment advancements have made cervical cancer one of the most treatable cancers when detected early. However, the possibility of recurrence cannot be ignored, especially in cases diagnosed at advanced stages. Studies indicate that up to 30 per cent of women treated for cervical cancer experience recurrence within two years. Adhering to follow-up care, a healthy lifestyle, and timely screenings are essential to minimize this risk.
Can women with cervical cancer ever get pregnant?
One of the most distressing myths is that cervical cancer renders women infertile. While certain treatments, like hysterectomy, may impact fertility, newer fertility-sparing techniques are available. Procedures like conisation (removal of a cone-shaped tissue) and radical trachelectomy (surgery to remove cervix, vagina, and surrounding tissue) allow women with early-stage cervical cancer to preserve their fertility. A 2022 study highlights that nearly 85 per cent of women who underwent these procedures successfully conceived within three years.
Is HPV screening painful?
HPV screening is a quick and relatively painless procedure. It is often performed during a routine pelvic exam, and most women report little to no discomfort during the test. A healthcare provider will collect a sample of cells from the cervix using a small brush or spatula, which typically causes minimal discomfort. The procedure is much less invasive and painful than many women expect, and the benefits of early detection far outweigh any temporary discomfort.
Why do I need HPV screening if I have had the HPV vaccine?
While the HPV vaccine significantly reduces the risk of infection from certain high-risk HPV strains, it does not protect against all strains of the virus. The vaccine primarily protects against the most common cancer-causing types but it does not guarantee immunity against every potential strain that could lead to cervical cancer. Therefore, even women who have been vaccinated should continue to undergo regular HPV screenings as part of their overall cervical cancer prevention strategy. The combination of vaccination and regular screening offers the best protection.
Does a positive HPV test mean I have cervical cancer?
A positive HPV test result does not mean you have cervical cancer. In fact, most HPV infections, particularly those caused by low-risk strains, are cleared by the body on their own within a couple of years. However, a positive test for high-risk HPV strains indicates an increased risk of cervical cancer, but it does not mean cancer is present. If you test positive, your healthcare provider will likely recommend follow-up testing, such as a Pap smear or a colposcopy, to monitor any potential abnormal changes in cervical cells. Early detection and regular screenings are crucial for identifying pre-cancerous changes before they develop into full-blown cancer.
Dr Richa Bansal is Consultant, Gynaec Oncology, Laparoscopic & Robotic Surgery, Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai
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