Cervical cancer
It is a type of cancer occurs in the cervix cells. Cervix is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina.
Causes: human papillomavirus (HPV strains).
When exposed to HPV, a woman's immune system typically prevents the virus from doing harm. In a small group of women, however, the virus survives for years to become cancer cells on the surface of the cervix.
Symptoms:
· Vaginal bleeding after intercourse, between periods or after menopause
· Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse
· Watery, bloody vaginal discharge that may be heavy and have a foul odor
Types of cervical cancer
· Adenocarcinoma: This type of cervical cancer begins in the column-shaped glandular cells that line the cervical canal.
· Squamous cell carcinoma: Cancer begins in the squamous cells, (flat cells) thin lining the outer part of the cervix
Stages of cervical cancer:
Risk factors
· Early sexual activity: Having sex at an early age increases risk of HPV.
· Many sexual partners: The greater the number of sexual partners the greater the chance of acquiring HPV.
· Other sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Having other STIs such as gonorrhea, Chlamydia, syphilis and AIDS / HIV increases risk of HPV.
· A weak immune system: If immune system is weakened by another health condition and the person have HPV.
· Smoking: Squamous cell cervical cancer associated with smoking.
Pap test: A Pap test can detect abnormal cells in the cervix, including the cells that show changes that increase the risk of cervical cancer and cancer cells.
During a Pap test, the doctor scrapes and brushes cells from cervix, which are then examined abnormalities in a lab.
Endocervical curettage, which uses a small, spoon-shaped instrument (curet) or a thin brush to scrape a tissue sample from the cervix.
Punch biopsy, which involves using a sharp tool to pinch off small samples of cervical tissue.
Radiation: Radiation therapy uses high-powered energy beams, such as X-rays or protons, to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy can be given:
Prevention: To reduce the risk of cervical cancer:
· Have routine Pap tests: This test used to detect the cervix precancerous conditions; this can be treated or monitored in to prevent cervical cancer.
· Get vaccinated against HPV: The vaccine is most effective if given to girls before they become sexually active. Vaccination is available for women and girls ages 9 to 26.
· Practice safe sex: Using a condom, having fewer sexual partners and delaying intercourse may reduce your risk of cervical cancer.
· Don't smoke
Cancer, cervix, vagina, lower part of uterus, human papillomavirus