Post women’s month: It is important that, continue to put women first and to provide education with regards to Cervical Cancer. World Health Organization (WHO) has a programme aimed at eliminating cervical cancer. This is possible through mass population screening early detection and screening.
Q. What is Cervical Cancer?
A. Cervical Cancer is a malignant tumor which grows in the cervix (lower-part of the womb). It is caused mainly by a long-lasting viral infection [Human Papillomavirus (HPV)]
Q. What are the symptoms of Cervical Cancer?
A. Most cases are asymptomatic, however the following are the most common symptoms:
Immediately when you suspect or recognize the symptoms, consult your doctor.
It is also important that women do regular Pap smear, as this will assist with the early detection of any HPV and pre-cancerous cells. The pap smear can be done yearly or even 3-5 years depending on the risk category.
The pap smear process is uncomfortable, however painless and necessary for early detection and treatment of cancer.
Treatments of Cervical Cancer?
The main types of the treatment include surgical procedures, radiation therapy and chemo-radiation.
During early stages of the cancer, surgical procedures (such as Radical Hysterectomy (a specialized type of hysterectomy) is done. In advanced cancer, treatment is by means of radiation therapy, chemotherapy or chemo-radiation therapy.Q. What are Risk Factors of Cervical Cancer?
Q. What are Risk Factors of Cervical Cancer?
A. The risk factors include:
Q. What are the risk factor reduction methods?
A. Prevention or risk reduction:
It is important to take into account that Cervical Cancer is the second most common type of cancer in South Africa.
