Risk of cervical cancer rising in India, warn doctors

Risk of cervical cancer rising in India, warn doctors

Pune: Early detection through increased awareness can reduce the cervical cancer rate in India. City-based doctors said the risk of acquiring the condition increases with a number of women becoming sexually active at an early age.

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in India. It is a malignant tumour of the lower-most part of the uterus (womb), it occurs when abnormal cells on the cervix grow out of control. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. “Always consult a doctor if you notice irregular periods, spotting between periods and abnormal vaginal bleeding after sexual intercourse or post-menopause,” said a gynaecologist.

 Dr Asmita Potdar, gynaecologist and obstetrician at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Pune, said these mortality numbers can be partly attributed to a lack of awareness about the prevention techniques and the need for early detection through periodic health check-ups.

“Although cervical cancer is known to have a higher mortality rate than breast cancer, it is not yet perceived to be a social killer. It is widely believed and is a fallacy that the disease is transmitted only through consummation. The social perception attached to the disease. Therefore, is a common deterrent for many women to come forward for a preventive examination. However, awareness amongst healthcare providers and women for the need for pap screening and preventive services is a must and should go towards alleviating the problem,” said Dr Potdar.

Madhuri Burande Laha, Consultant, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Motherhood Hospital, Kharadi, Pune said cervical cancer occurs in sexually active women between 30-45 years of age. 

“However, with more number of young girls being sexually active at an early age, the risk of acquiring the condition increases. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is known to be transmitted from one person to another during sexual intercourse. This does not mean that every sexually active woman will acquire cervical cancer,” said Dr Laha.

She added that high parity, early first sexual intercourse, long-term use of hormonal contraceptives, tobacco use and low socioeconomic status, poor hygiene and a diet low in antioxidants can also be the risk factors.

Dr Asmita Potdar said it is important to follow up with your doctor after an abnormal pap test result so that you can treat abnormal cell changes.

“Human papillomavirus (HPV)  vaccine protects against cervical cancer and can be taken up to the age of 45 but ideally before 26 years, as earlier is better. The treatment for cervical cancer includes surgery, radiation and chemotherapy based on the varied stages of the disease. Sexually active women should regularly conduct a ap smear test, as cervical cancer is difficult to diagnose in the pre-cancerous stage. Primary level education regarding the condition (in schools) must be planned routinely to create awareness about cervical cancer as it can be prevented,” said Dr Potdar.

Why we should worry...

  • Cervical cancer in India accounts for one-fifth of cervical cancer prevalence globally
  • On a yearly basis, over 1,30,000 new cases are detected. It is estimated the number of new cervical cancer cases in India will increase to nearly 2,26,000 by 2025
  • Due to a lack of awareness and social stigma, the mortality rate among patients suffering from cervical cancer has risen from 74,118 reported deaths in 2002 to 2,70,000 reported deaths at present
  • Over 10 per cent of all cancer deaths annually are accounted to cervical cancer 

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