Cervical cancer: Expert says disease contributes to 20% of maternal deaths
Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women across the world, with nearly 660,000 fresh cases and 350,000 deaths being reported in 2022 alone.
The numbers are alarming which enforces us to recognise the potential symptoms of cervical cancer including abnormal or unusual vaginal bleeding, the feeling of discomfort during sexual intercourse, pelvic pain, weight loss, fatigue and loss of appetite or unusual discharge.
Dr Alison Schram, MD, Gynecologic Oncologist & Early Drug Development Specialist, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) shared with News9, “Women face a multitude of unique and often overlooked health challenges, including menstrual disorders, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), pregnancy complications, and menopausal symptoms.”
“Unfortunately, this disparity in research has led to underdiagnosis and undertreatment of women’s health. Among these health concerns, cervical cancer stands out as one of the most alarming issues affecting women worldwide. As we aim to close the research gap in focus and funding, it will be important for women to be proactive in managing their health.”
Know risk factors
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the main risk factors for cervical cancer. Women with HIV face a six-fold higher risk, with an estimated 5 per cent of all cases linked to HIV infection. This disease disproportionately affects younger women, contributing to 20 per cent of maternal cancer-related deaths.
Several other factors contributing to cervical cancer include smoking, early sexual activity, having many sexual partners, using oral contraceptives, and giving birth to three or more children.
Why early detection is the key
The disease is highly treatable when diagnosed early, boasting a five-year survival rate of approximately 92 per cent. However, if the cancer spreads, survival rates plummet significantly. Therefore, regular cervical cancer screening remains imperative, regardless of HPV vaccination status.
Women face a multitude of unique and often overlooked health challenges, including menstrual disorders, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), pregnancy complications, and menopausal symptoms.
Unfortunately, this disparity in research has led to underdiagnosis and undertreatment in women’s health. Among these health concerns, cervical cancer stands out as one of the most alarming issues affecting women worldwide. As we aim to close the research gap in focus and funding, it will be important for women to be proactive in managing their health.
