Breast Cancer is not only prevalent in women. Cervical Cancer too affects many women around the world. Cervical cancer is a malignancy found in the cervix (the narrow opening of uterus leading to the vagina). This disease affects women between the ages of 40 and 55. Cervical cancer gradually develops over a period of years. In fact, before cancer develops, the cervix will undergo irregular changes which are known as dysplasia.
If left untreated, cervical dysplasia may lead to cancer but this irregularity can be treated. Irregular changes can be detected through undergoing Pap smear. If you experience abnormal vaginal discharges (like bleeding), it is time to consult your doctor. Do not ignore this and think that it is normal because it is not. You have to protect yourself against cervical cancer. Here are some tips that you can consider:
Diagnosis
As mentioned earlier, Pap smear can detect dysplasia. It can also detect cervical cancer. With this, the government initiated CSS (CervialScreen Singapore). This initiative persuades all women aged 25 and above to submit to Pap smear once in three years.
Treatment
If you have cervical cancer, surgery should be considered. A surgery removing the cancers in the outer layers of the cervix should be performed. But if the tumor is large or if the cancer has spread, invasive surgery should be thought about. Chemotherapy may also be considered.
Prevention
The prevention of cervical cancer will always begin with averting the HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection. There is a vaccine that can put off HPV infection. Girls between 11 and 12 are recommended to take the vaccine to give them protection later in their life. There are experts who also recommend the use of condoms during intercourse to prevent the spreading of HPV. Pap smear should be considered.