NEW DELHI: Cervical cancer has very less cases as it has almost no symptoms and however, it can be prevented, through screening and early detection of the disease. The test to detect the cancer is the Smear tests that are recommended for women from age 25 years and above as detecting abnormal cervical cells that may develop into tumor.
Causes of cervical cancer
The cervical cancer is linked with common sexually transmitted viral infection called human papilloma virus (HPV). Most of the HPV infections in women clear by themselves through urine and hygiene but some can cause abnormal cell changes to the tumor that may lead to cervical cancer.
Factors that can increase the risk of cervical cancer are:
1 Sexual activity- Any woman who has been sexually active and follows a less hygiene is at high risk of developing cervical cancer.
2 Genetics- Cervical cancer can be caused due to gene mutations, but only few women can develop cervical cancer than others.
3 Smoking- Smoking can increase the risk of cervical cancer in women.
4 Weak immune system- Weak immunity can also cause cervical cancer.
Symptoms of cervical cancer
1 Abnormal vaginal bleeding
2 Unusual vaginal discharge
3 Pain in the pelvic area
4 Excessive tiredness
5 Swollen or painful legs
6 Lower back pain.
Treatment
1 Cone biopsy- Cone biopsy is a procedure that can cure the early stage of cancer.
2 Large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ)- It is a common procedure that is performed by passing an electrical current through a wire loop to remove abnormal cervical cells.
3 Laser surgery- Laser treatment is used to remove the kill the cancer cells. Laser treatment is quite painful and usually requires anaesthesia to freeze that area.
4 Cryosurgery- In cryosurgery, an instrument is cooled using liquid nitrogen and then applied to the affected area. This can freeze and destroy the cancerous abnormal cells.
