Cervical Cancer

Overview

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the lower part of the uterus, i.e. the cervix. It’s currently the fourth most common cancer affecting women globally, making it a significant concern. However, despite how common it is, cervical cancer is highly preventable compared to other cancers and can be treated effectively when detected early.

What is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer, also known as cancer of the cervix, begins on the surface of the cervix and involves the growth of abnormal cells in its lining. Cervical cancer is primarily caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is preventable with a vaccine.

There are three main types of cervical cancer:

Squamous cell carcinoma: This type forms in the lining of the cervix and accounts for about 70% of cases.
Adenocarcinoma: This type forms in the cells that produce mucus and is less common.
Mixed carcinoma: This type has features of both squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.

Preventive measures, including the HPV vaccine and regular screenings, are crucial in reducing the risk of cervical cancer. Early detection and treatment significantly improve the chances of successful outcomes.

Symptoms of Cervical Cancer

In its early stages, cervical cancer typically doesn’t show any symptoms, which is why regular screening is important to catch it at this stage. Once symptoms do start appearing, they include abnormal vaginal bleeding (in between periods) and unusual vaginal discharge. Pain during sex in the pelvic region is another common symptom. As the cancer worsens, patients may experience more severe symptoms like weight loss, fatigue and leg swelling.

• Precancerous changes in cervical cells rarely cause symptoms. The only way to detect abnormal cells that may develop into cancer is through a cervical screening test. If these early cell changes progress into cervical cancer, the most common signs include:
• Vaginal bleeding between periods
• Menstrual bleeding that is longer or heavier than usual
• Pain during intercourse
• Bleeding after intercourse
• Pelvic pain
• Changes in vaginal discharge, such as increased discharge or discharge with a strong or unusual color or smell
• Vaginal bleeding after menopause

These symptoms can be caused by other conditions, but if you are worried or symptoms persist, it is essential to contact your doctor. This is important for anyone with a cervix, including individuals who are straight, lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.

Early signs of cervical cancer can include:

• Pain during sex
• Unusual vaginal bleeding, such as after sex, between periods, after menopause, or following a pelvic exam
• Unusual vaginal discharge that is watery, bloody, and/or has a strong odour

As cervical cancer progresses, it can cause additional symptoms, such as:

• Pelvic pain
• Trouble urinating
• Swollen legs
• Kidney failure
• Bone pain
• Weight loss and lack of appetite
• Fatigue
• Backache
• Stomach pain

It is crucial to note that you might not notice symptoms of cervical cancer until it has advanced. Regular screenings and prompt medical consultation for any concerning symptoms are vital for early detection and effective treatment.

Causes of Cervical Cancer

The main cause behind cervical cancer are infections caused by high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV). Certain strains of HPV, like HPV-15 and HPV-18, have been found to be behind around 70% of cervical cancer cases. There are certain factors that can increase the risk of HPV infection in an individual, like having multiple sexual partners, sex at an early age and certain conditions like HIV/AIDs that can weaken your immune system. Smoking and using oral contraceptives have also linked to being a causative risk.

Most people who are sexually active will get infected with HPV at some point. Usually, it clears up on its own. However, if the infection persists, it can lead to cervical cancer. Other risk factors include:

- Smoking and passive smoking
- A weakened immune system

According to the Cancer Council, "Around eight out of 10 women will become infected with genital HPV at some time in their lives. Most women who have the HPV infection never get cervical cancer; only a few types of HPV result in cervical cancer."

Tests and Treatments for Cervical Cancer

The diagnosis itself of cervical cancer typically involves several tests. The Pap smear test collects cells from the cervix to detect precancerous or cancerous changes. If any abnormalities are found, a HPV DNA test may be conducted to identify high-risk infections. A colposcopy, which involves a closer examination of the cervix using a colposcope, is often performed following abnormal Pap test results. Lastly, a biopsy, where a sample of cervical tissue is taken for analysis, confirms the presence of cancer cells.

Treatment for cervical cancer, on the other hand, depends on what stage the disease is in and also the patient’s own consideration for their fertility, as some procedures may affect their ability to conceive a baby. Among these, some surgical options include conization, trachelectomies, and hysterectomies. Chemotherapy is a more widely known option, using drugs that target and kill cancer cells. Lastly, targeted therapy can focus on specific mechanisms within cancer cells, while immunotherapy helps boost the immune system to fight the cancer.

Prevention for Cervical Cancer

There are certain vaccinations you can take in order to reduce the risk, like HPV vaccines, which provide protection against the more dangerous strains of HPV. Other than that, regular medical tests like Pap smear tests can help detect the cancer early on in its cycle. Due to the causes outlined above, another solution is using condoms and practicing safe sex which can reduce the risk of transmission of HPV.

The HPV vaccine protects against specific types of HPV that cause almost all cervical cancers. To prevent cervical cancer, consider the following steps:

• Receive regular gynecological exams and Pap tests.
• Get the HPV vaccine if eligible.
• Use condoms or other barrier methods during sex.
• Limit your number of sexual partners.
• Stop smoking and using tobacco products.

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