The Truth About Cervical Cancer That Every Girl Should know
Cervical cancer awareness has become a global trend, which is undoubtedly a positive development. You might have noticed news about cervical cancer circulating on platforms like Instagram or Twitter.
This isn’t a new topic, but it has recently gained widespread attention. Wondering why? It’s because this month is dedicated to cervical cancer awareness, prompting discussions everywhere.
If we look at the stats, globally, cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women, with 604,000 new cases in 2020.
The statistics are significant, so whether you’re a woman or a man with a wife, sister, or female friend, don’t skip reading this entire article.
Because we will be sharing information that every teenage girl or woman should be aware of, keep reading to get valuable insight to help you lead a healthy life. We also recommend you spread this information to as many women as possible.
So, let’s get started!
Who all are at Risk of Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer typically affects women over 30 years old, although it can occur at any age. However, it’s important to note that almost all sexually active individuals can be infected with high-risk human papillomaviruses (HPV) at some point in their lives, often without showing any symptoms.
Wondering why?
Well, nearly all cases of cervical cancer (99%) are associated with infection by high-risk HPV, a very common virus spread through sexual contact. While the immune system can usually clear HPV from the body, persistent infection with high-risk strains can lead to the development of abnormal cells, which may eventually progress to cancer.
Causes
- Multiple full-term pregnancies: Studies suggest women with three or more full-term pregnancies have a slightly higher risk, possibly due to increased exposure to HPV or hormonal changes.
- Smoking: Smoking can damage cervical cells and make them more susceptible to HPV infection and cancer development.
- Multiple partners: Having multiple sexual partners increases your chances of encountering HPV.
Let’s understand the symptoms that show you might have Cervical Cancer
Symptoms
- Vaginal bleeding between periods
- Excessive or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Pain during intercourse
- Bleeding after intercourse
- Pelvic pain
- Changes in your vaginal discharge, such as more discharge or discharge that is strongly scented or colored
- Vaginal bleeding after menopause.
Other conditions can also cause these symptoms, but if symptoms persist, contact your doctor. Everyone with a cervix should be aware of this, regardless of their sexual orientation.
Now, the question arises: what are we all doing about this problem? Are there any campaigns run by WHO or countries individually just for another sort of cancer like breast and ovarian?
The answer is yes. The governments of most countries are raising awareness about this issue, and the good news is that cervical cancer is generally considered treatable and curable, particularly if it is detected early.
Cervical Cancer Vaccination
We assume not a lot of people are aware of the fact that the cervical cancer vaccine is available to prevent the human papillomavirus (HPV) types that cause most cervical cancers as well as some cancers of the anus, vulva, vagina, and oropharynx. The vaccine also guards against the HPV strains that typically result in genital warts.
Is it Necessary For Every Girl to Get Vaccinated?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized the Gardasil 9 vaccine. Individuals nine years of age and up may receive it. You can administer this vaccination alongside other vaccinations.
Regular HPV vaccination is advised starting at age 11 or 12, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). A person should get vaccinated before they start engaging in sexual activity.
Getting the vaccine early is important because once a person gets HPV, the vaccine may not work as well. It’s designed to prevent new infections, not clear existing ones.
Studies show that getting the vaccine at a young age doesn’t lead to earlier sexual activity.
If you’re under 15, you’ll need two doses of the vaccine, spaced 6 to 12 months apart. If you start the series later, between ages 15 and 26, you’ll need three doses over six months.
So, if you’re 16 or older, it’s important not to wait any longer to get vaccinated against cervical cancer.
Cervical Cancer Awareness Campaign
Cervical cancer used to be a major cause of cancer deaths for women in the US. However, its impact has decreased significantly thanks to screening and prevention methods. However, around 13,820 women are still expected to get diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2024, as per the National Cancer Institute. Because of this, the government continues to raise awareness about cervical cancer.
If we talk about the stats worldwide, Twenty-five percent of all global deaths due to cervical cancer occur in India. By keeping these stats in mind, the government, while presenting the budget for 2024, announced plans to focus on vaccination against cervical cancer for girls aged 9 to 14.
After releasing the news of the allotted budget for cervical cancer awareness, shockingly a famous Indian model faked the news of her death caused by cervical, which led to the entire country talking about cervical cancer; after creating chaos among her people, she came up with the video next day stating she started this whole chaos just to spread the awareness among country people.
What are your thoughts on such an awareness stunt? Have you been vaccinated? And how are you going to spread this news to more women?
Let us know in the comment section; let’s combine efforts to spread cervical cancer awareness.
