Wakad, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune, care@sunmedhospital.com
Cervical Cancer Treatment
Cervical cancer is a malignancy that originates in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. While it was once one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in women, the incidence and mortality rates have decreased significantly due to regular screening, early detection methods, and the introduction of HPV vaccination. However, cervical cancer remains a significant health issue in parts of the world where access to healthcare, vaccination, and screening services is limited.
Cervical cancer develops when abnormal cells on the cervix grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. Cervical cancer typically progresses through two stages:
Pre-cancerous changes (Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia or CIN): These are abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix that may, if not detected and treated early, develop into cancer. Invasive cervical cancer: This occurs when cancerous cells spread beyond the cervix into nearby tissues or organs.The most common cause of cervical cancer is persistent infection with high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly HPV types 16 and 18.
In its early stages, cervical cancer may not show any noticeable symptoms. As the disease progresses, however, symptoms may include:
Abnormal vaginal bleeding: This includes bleeding between periods, after intercourse, or post-menopause. Unusual vaginal discharge: The discharge may be thick, watery, or have an unpleasant odor, which is often a sign of cervical cancer in more advanced stages. Pelvic pain: Women with cervical cancer may experience pain during intercourse or persistent pelvic discomfort. Painful urination or bowel movements: Pain during urination or bowel movements can occur if the cancer has spread to nearby organs such as the bladder or rectum. Swelling in the legs: This could be a sign of advanced cancer, where fluid builds up in the legs due to the cancer spreading. Fatigue: Persistent tiredness, even after adequate rest, can be a common symptom as cervical cancer progresses.The primary cause of cervical cancer is infection with high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (HPV). However, other factors can contribute to an increased risk of cervical cancer:
Weakened immune system: Conditions like HIV/AIDS or immunosuppressive therapy for organ transplants can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to HPV infections. Multiple sexual partners: Having different sexual partners or a partner with multiple sexual partners increases the risk of HPV exposure. Early sexual activity: Having sexual intercourse at a young age increases the risk of HPV infection. Smoking: Smoking damages the immune system and can contribute to the development of cervical cancer. Long-term use of birth control pills: Using oral contraceptives for five or more years has been associated with an increased risk of cervical cancer. History of sexually transmitted infections (STIs): A past history of STIs such as chlamydia or herpes increases the risk of cervical cancer.Early diagnosis is critical for effective treatment. Several methods are used to diagnose cervical cancer:
Pap Smear (Pap Test): Cells are taken from the cervix as part of this screening test in order to find any unusual alterations. Precancerous alterations can be detected by a Pap smear, allowing for prompt intervention. HPV Test: This test detects high-risk strains of HPV in the cervical cells. It is commonly used in women aged 30 or older and is often combined with a Pap test for more thorough screening. Colposcopy: If a Pap smear shows abnormal results, a colposcopy may be performed. This procedure uses a special magnifying device to examine the cervix closely. A biopsy may be taken during this procedure to test for cancerous cells. Biopsy: If cervical cancer is suspected, a biopsy (a tissue sample from the cervix) is taken to confirm the presence of cancer cells. Imaging Tests: If cancer is confirmed, imaging techniques like CT scans, MRI, or PET scans help determine the extent of cancer spread to other organs.The treatment for cervical cancer is determined by the tumor's size, the woman's overall health, and whether or not she wants to maintain her fertility. Treatment options include:
Conization: A small cone-shaped portion of the cervix is removed to treat pre-cancerous cells. Hysterectomy: The uterus and cervix may need to be removed during a hysterectomy if the cancer has spread. It could occasionally be necessary to remove the surrounding tissues as well.This involves using high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It may be used alone or alongside chemotherapy, especially in advanced stages of cervical cancer.
Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. It is often used for advanced-stage cervical cancer in combination with radiation therapy.
This treatment is typically less harmful than chemotherapy and uses medications that target particular cancer cells while causing the least amount of harm to healthy cells.
Immunotherapy helps stimulate the body’s immune system to fight cancer. It is typically used for recurrent or advanced cervical cancer.
Clinical trials may be used to explore new medicines, giving women who don't react to conventional therapies other options.
Although it is not always possible to prevent cervical cancer, there are a number of actions that can greatly lower the risk:
HPV Vaccination: Vaccines protect against high-risk HPV strains (including types 16 and 18), which are the primary cause of cervical cancer. Vaccination is recommended for girls around the age of 11 or 12 but can be administered up to age 26. Regular Screening: Regular Pap smears and HPV testing help detect abnormal changes in the cervix before they progress to cancer. Women should follow their healthcare provider’s recommendations for screening. Safe Sexual Practices: Using protection during sexual activity can reduce the transmission of HPV and other sexually transmitted infections that increase the risk of cervical cancer. Avoid Smoking: Smoking is one of the major risk factors for cervical cancer. Quitting smoking can lower the risk of developing the disease. Healthy Lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular physical exercises, and stress management can strengthen the immune system, making it more effective at fighting HPV infections.Cervical cancer is highly treatable, especially when diagnosed early. With appropriate treatment, many women can achieve a complete cure.
Early symptoms may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, unusual discharge, and pelvic pain, although many women do not experience symptoms in the early stages.
Persistent infection with high-risk HPV types (especially HPV-16 and HPV-18) is the leading cause of cervical cancer.
Yes, many women can live long and healthy lives after cervical cancer, especially if the cancer is diagnosed and treated at an early stage.
Treatment for cervical cancer depends on the cancer’s stage but typically includes surgery (such as a hysterectomy), radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, or a combination of these methods.
If cervical cancer left untreated it can be life-threatening, but with early detection and timely treatment, it has a favorable prognosis.
Yes, cervical cancer can be completely cured, particularly in its early stages, through surgery, radiation, and/or chemotherapy.
