Cervical cancer: Save the coochies

• Cervical cancer is globally one of the most common cancers in women.

• The highest rates of cervical cancer incidence and mortality are in low- and middle-income countries.

• Cervical cancer is caused by persistent infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV).

• Women living with HIV are 6 times more likely to develop cervical cancer compared to women without HIV.

• Cervical cancer can be cured if diagnosed at an early stage and treated promptly.

• Prophylactic vaccination against HPV, screening, and treatment of pre-cancer lesions are effective ways to prevent cervical cancer.

Although cervical cancer is only the 2nd most common cancer among women, it is the cancer that most women die of. Women in South Africa have a 1 in 42 lifetime risk of cervical cancer. Yet early detection of cervical cancer can lead to successful treatment, highlighting the importance of preventative action against HPV infection and cervical cancer.

What is the cause of cervical cancer?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection affecting the skin, genital area, and throat. In most cases, the immune system clears HPV from the body. However, persistent infection with high-risk HPV can cause abnormal cells to develop.

Persistent HPV infection of the cervix, if left untreated, causes 95% of cervical cancers.

It takes plenty of years for abnormal cells to become cancer, but in women with weakened immune systems, such as untreated HIV, this process can be significantly faster.

Other factors also play a role in the development of HPV such as immune status, the presence of other sexually transmitted infections, number of births, young age at first pregnancy, and smoking. 

Here is your guide for preventing and early detection:

1. Receiving the HPV vaccine at an early age (9-14 years) is a very effective way of preventing HPV infection, cervical cancer, and other HPV-related cancers. The HPV vaccine can also be received even later in life at any age if not received as a child.

2. Regular screening of women from the age of 30 years, including regular pap smears and HPV tests.

3. Regular screenings of women from the age of 25 years who are HIV-positive.

4. Avoid unprotected sexual intercourse.

5. Maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid smoking.

Early symptoms of cervical cancer:

If any of the following symptoms are noticeable, please see your healthcare professionals as soon as possible.

• unusual bleeding between periods, after menopause, or after sexual intercourse

• increased or foul-smelling vaginal discharge

• symptoms like persistent pain in the back, legs, or pelvis

• weight loss, fatigue, and loss of appetite

• vaginal discomfort

• swelling in the legs.

Diagnosis of cervical cancer will range from multiple tests and steps provided by a multidisciplinary team of experts.

As with many other diseases and cancers, early detection and treatment remain the best possible line of treatment for the best outcomes. Therefore in celebration of Cervical Cancer Awareness month, make regular pap smears and preventative measures part of your regular health priorities.