29/01/2022
WHAT IS CERVICAL CANCER?
Cervical cancer is cancer that develops at the lower most part of the uterus which is known as the cervix. Cancer is an abnormal growth of cells which invade normal tissues and eventually spread to distant organs if untreated and in the process disrupt normal bodily functions.
Cervical cancer is the commonest cancer in Zimbabwean females accounting for 36.1% of cancers in women. It is also the leading cause of cancer deaths amongst females yet this is a disease that can be screened for and detected in the precancerous stages where treatment at this point has very good outcomes.
RISK FACTORS FOR CERVICAL CANCER
A risk factor is something that increases oneās chances of developing a disease and in this case, cervical cancer.
Having a risk factor does not mean one will get the disease and similarly, some people may get cervical cancer even without any known risk factors.
1.Almost all cervical cancers are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that can be passed from one person to another during s*x. There are many types of HPV. Some HPV types can cause changes on a womanās cervix that can lead to cervical cancer over time, while other types can cause ge***al or skin warts. HPV is so common that most people get it at some time in their lives. HPV usually causes no symptoms so you canāt tell that you have it. For most women, HPV will go away on its own; however, if it does not, there is a chance that over time it may cause cervical cancer.
2.HIV infection or other medical conditions which result in a weakened immune system.
3.Smoking.
4.Having multiple s*xual partners.
5.Early age at first s*xual encounter especially younger than 18 years old.
6.Having a partner who has multiple s*xual partners.
7.History of s*xually transmitted infections.
HOW CAN ONE LOWER THEIR RISK OF DEVELOPING CERVICAL CANCER?
The most important thing you can do to help prevent cervical cancer is to get vaccinated early and have regular screening tests.
1.HPV Vaccine
ā¢The HPV vaccine protects against the types of HPV that most often cause cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers.
ā¢HPV vaccination is recommended for preteens aged 11 to 12 years but can be given starting at age 9. In 2018 the government of Zimbabwe introduced bivalent HPV vaccine and the vaccination programme targets all 10ā14-year-old girls.
ā¢HPV vaccine can also be given to those not vaccinated up to the age of 26 years.
ā¢HPV vaccination is not recommended for everyone older than age 26 years. However, some adults aged 27 through 45 years who are not already vaccinated may decide to get the HPV vaccine after speaking with their doctor about their risk for new HPV infections and the possible benefits of vaccination. HPV vaccination in this age range provides less benefit, as most people have already been exposed to HPV.
ā¢HPV vaccination prevents new HPV infections but does not treat existing infections or diseases. Therefore, the HPV vaccine works best when given before any exposure to HPV. `One should get screened for cervical cancer regularly, even if you received an HPV vaccine.
2.Screening Tests
Screening tests can help prevent cervical cancer as they may detect precancerous which can be managed before one develops cancer.
3.Other Ways to Help Prevent Cervical Cancer.
These things may also help lower your risk of cervical cancer:
ā¢Smoking cessation
ā¢Use condoms during s*x. *
ā¢Limit your number of s*xual partners.
*HPV infection can occur in both male and female ge***al areas that are covered or protected by a latex condom, as well as in areas that are not covered. Therefore, a condom does not offer full protection against acquiring HPV.
