Cervical Cancer Awareness: Causes, Prevention, and Cure
- Shreya Giri
- Sep 25
- 4 min read
Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide, yet it is also among the most preventable and treatable when detected early. Unfortunately, lack of awareness, stigma around gynecological health, and limited access to healthcare have allowed it to remain a major public health challenge. This blog aims to spread awareness of cervical cancer, explaining what it is, what causes it, how it can be detected early, and what treatments are available. With the right knowledge, women and families can take proactive steps to protect themselves and future generations.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cervical cancer claims the lives of more than 300,000 women every year, with the majority of cases occurring in low- and middle-income countries.
Cervical cancer occurs in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It develops when abnormal cells in the cervix grow uncontrollably and form tumors.
Cervical cancer usually develops slowly over time, beginning as precancerous changes known as cervical dysplasia. These changes can be detected early through regular screening and treated before they become cancerous.
There are two main types:
Squamous cell carcinoma (about 80–90% of cases) – starts in the thin, flat cells lining the cervix.
Adenocarcinoma (10–20% of cases) – starts in the glandular cells producing cervical mucus.
Causes of Cervical Cancer
The primary cause of cervical cancer is persistent infection with high-risk types of Human Papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a group of more than 200 viruses, some of which are considered “high risk” because they can cause cancer.
a) Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
HPV spreads mainly through sexual contact.
While most HPV infections clear on their own within 1–2 years, in some women the infection persists.
Persistent high-risk HPV infection can damage cervical cells, leading to precancerous changes and eventually cervical cancer.
b) Risk Factors
Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing cervical cancer:
Early sexual activity or multiple partners – increases risk of HPV exposure.
Weakened immune system – such as in HIV-positive women.
Smoking – toxins in cigarettes contribute to cell damage.
Long-term use of oral contraceptives (more than 5 years).
Multiple pregnancies and giving birth at a young age.
Family history of cervical cancer.
Poor hygiene and lack of regular screening.
Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
In its early stages, cervical cancer usually has no symptoms, which is why screening is so important. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include:
Abnormal vaginal bleeding (between periods, after sex, or after menopause).
Unusual vaginal discharge (watery, bloody, or foul-smelling).
Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse.
Longer and heavier menstrual periods.
Advanced cases may cause weight loss, fatigue, back pain, or swelling in the legs.
Prevention of Cervical Cancer
a) HPV Vaccination
The HPV vaccine is the most effective tool for prevention.
Recommended for girls and boys aged 9–14 (before sexual activity begins).
Can also be given up to age 26, and in some cases even later with a doctor’s advice.
Protects against high-risk HPV strains (like HPV-16 and HPV-18) that cause 70% of cervical cancers.
b) Screening and Early Detection
Pap smear test (Pap test): Detects abnormal cervical cells before they become cancerous.
HPV DNA test: Identifies the presence of high-risk HPV strains.
WHO recommends:
Women aged 21–29: Pap smear every 3 years.
Women aged 30–65: Pap smear every 3 years or HPV test every 5 years.
c) Safe Practices
Practicing safe sex (condoms, limiting number of partners).
Avoiding smoking.
Maintaining good nutrition and hygiene.
Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer
If screening suggests abnormal cells, further diagnostic tests may be performed:
Colposcopy: A special microscope examines the cervix.
Biopsy: A small sample of cervical tissue is tested for cancer cells.
Imaging tests (MRI, CT scan, PET scan): To determine cancer spread and staging.
Stages of Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is categorized into stages (I to IV), depending on how far it has spread:
Stage I: Cancer is confined to the cervix.
Stage II: Cancer spreads beyond the cervix but not to the pelvic wall.
Stage III: Cancer spreads to the lower vagina or pelvic wall, may block kidneys.
Stage IV: Cancer spreads to nearby organs (bladder, rectum) or distant organs (lungs, liver).
Treatment and Cure of Cervical Cancer
a) Early-Stage Treatment
Surgery: Removal of abnormal tissue, part of the cervix, or entire uterus (hysterectomy).
Conization: Removal of a cone-shaped section of abnormal tissue
b) Advanced-Stage Treatment
Radiation therapy: High-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
Chemotherapy: Drugs that destroy or shrink tumors.
Targeted therapy: Drugs like bevacizumab block blood supply to cancer cells.
Immunotherapy: Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer.
c) Survival and Recovery
If detected early, cervical cancer has a 5-year survival rate of over 90%.
Advanced stages have lower survival rates, highlighting the need for screening and vaccination.
About the Author
Shreya Giri is a talented SEO content writer with a unique flair for captivating readers. With a bachelor's degree in geography, her passion for crafting exceptional content shines through in every word she writes. Shreya's expertise lies in her ability to seamlessly blend language and storytelling, effortlessly capturing the attention of her audience.
She is pursuing a Master's degree in geography and has a remarkable talent for transforming intricate concepts into captivating narratives that have a lasting impact. With Shreya, you can expect excellent, compelling content that will keep you engaged from beginning to end.
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