Cervical Cancer Awareness: A Call to Action for 2025
What is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus. This occurs when healthy cells in the cervix change and begin to multiply rapidly. These cells form a tumor and spread to other parts of the body.It is estimated as the fourth most common cancer affecting women worldwide.
World Prevalence
According to the World Health Organization, approximately 604,000 new cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed annually, resulting in around 342,000 deaths. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the primary cause of cervical cancer. This is a sexually transmitted infection that can lead to the development of abnormal cell growth on the cervix, which may progress to cancer over time. Other risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing cervical cancer include early onset of sexual activity,multiple sexual partners,smoking,weakened immune system, family history of cervical cancer.
Signs and Symptoms
The early stages of cervical cancer often do not present noticeable symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, women may experience abnormal vaginal bleeding, such as bleeding after intercourse, between menstrual periods, or after menopause, pelvic pain or discomfort during intercourse, unusual vaginal discharge, fatigue, weight loss, and loss of appetite.
Health awareness is created to increase knowledge about the disease and its risk factors, promote human papilloma virus vaccination and cervical cancer screening, supporting research and development of innovative treatments and ensuring equitable access to cervical cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment services.
Prevention and Management
Prevention is said to be better than cure, actions like public awareness aimed at educating the public especially women about the disease, t’s early signs and management.
Performing the human papilloma virus vaccination, regular cervical cancer screening, such as Pap tests and human papilloma virus tests, can detect abnormal cell growth and this can be achieved with partnerships with NGOs and private sector to ensure the vaccines are available. Safe sexual practices and maintaining a healthy lifestyle including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking, can also help prevent cervical cancer.
Ultimately, the HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing cervical cancer. The WHO recommends that girls aged 9-14 receive the human papilloma virus vaccine as part of their national immunization programs. Cervical cancer can be managed using surgery to remove cancerous cells, tissue or organs,radation therap, high-energy and chemotherapy.
Healthy living is a priority and an investment worth venturing in. Your health is your wealth. Rx Iruoma Goldy Ani