Cervical cancer is a cancer that affects women of different ages and backgrounds, throughout the world. Both younger and older women are at risk of the cervical cancer, and the risk can develop from your first sexual experience.
In conjunction with Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, here are eight facts about cervical cancer that you should know to aid with the prevention of the disease.
1. According to the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM), cervical cancer is the most common cancer among Malaysian females. (Source)
2. Cervical cancer is cancer in the cervix, which is the lower, narrow part of the uterus.
3. The major cause of cervical cancer is the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that is passed from one person to another during sex. At least half of sexually active people will contract HPV at some point of their lives.
4. Cervical cancer is the easiest gynecological cancer to prevent through regular screening tests and follow-ups. It’s also highly curable when it is found and treated early.
5. There may not be many signs and symptoms of cervical cancer in the early stages, but advanced stages may cause bleeding or abnormal discharge from the vagina, including bleeding after sex.
6. The best way to prevent cervical cancer, is through regular Pap tests or Pap smears, which help find cervical cancer early. The test looks out for pre cancers and cell changes in the cervix.
7. You are more likely to develop cervical cancer if you smoke, have HIV or low immune system, and don’t get regular Pap smears.
8. To prevent cervical cancer, you consult your doctor for a HPV vaccine. It is recommended that women get vaccinated as early as age 11, as the vaccine can protect against HPV-related cancers like vaginal and vulvar cancers. (Source)
So, ladies. Don’t forget to contact your physician today to schedule a Pap smear as soon as possible.
