Dr Olga Sambolska. — Photo courtesy of Family Medical Practice

Dr Olga Sambolska*

Today, I want to talk about a topic that is near and dear to my heart: cervical cancer. Worldwide, cervical cancer is the fourth most frequent cancer in women.

Cervix uteri is the lower part of the uterus that connects the uterus and the vagina. Due to its anatomy and the function of cervical cells, it is very vulnerable to vaginal microbes and sexually transmitted infections.

Human papillomavirus (HPV), is a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause cervical cancer. The virus integrates into cervical cells DNA, damages the DNA and can provoke unregulated abnormal cell division and tumour growth.

It's important to note that the HPV infection is not treatable and mostly remains asymptomatic before leading to cell abnormalities and pre-cancerogenous cervical changes.

While it can be a serious health issue, the good news is that cervical cancer is largely preventable by vaccination, practising safe sex and regular screening.

Cervical screening is essential in detecting cervical cancer early on. The pap smear, also known as the papanicolaou test, is a medical screening test designed to detect abnormal, potentially precancerous cells within the cervix. By identifying these cells early, we can remove them before they turn into cancer. Women should start getting Pap tests at the age of 21 and have them every three years until age 65. Women over the age of 30 may also choose to have an HPV test along with their Pap test, which can detect the presence of the HPV virus in the cervix. Women who have a history of abnormal Pap tests may need to have more frequent screening.

In addition to regular screening, getting vaccinated against HPV is another crucial step in preventing cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine is recommended for both boys and girls starting at age 11 or 12, although it can be given as early as age nine. This vaccine is most effective when given before a person becomes sexually active, as HPV is primarily spread through sexual contact. By getting vaccinated, you can avoid infection with the strains of HPV that are most likely to cause cervical cancer.

But that's not all - practising safe sex is also key in reducing your risk of cervical cancer. Use condoms during sexual activity, and limit the number of sexual partners. Women who smoke are also at a higher risk for cervical cancer and should consider quitting to reduce their risk.

It's important to be aware of potential signs of cervical cancer, such as abnormal vaginal bleeding, pain during sex, unusual vaginal discharge, and pelvic pain. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to see a healthcare provider right away. While these symptoms may not necessarily be a sign of cervical cancer, they should still be evaluated to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

Worldwide, cervical cancer is the fourth most frequent cancer in women. — Photo shutterstock.com

In addition to regular screening, vaccination, and safe sex practices, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is also essential in reducing your risk of cervical cancer. This includes getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, and managing stress. Women who have a weakened immune system, such as those with HIV or who have had an organ transplant, may be at a higher risk for cervical cancer and should talk to their healthcare provider about additional screening and prevention measures.

The burden of cervical cancer remains high in many parts of the world, and in most countries, the incidence and mortality of the disease remain much higher than the threshold set by the WHO. This is why it's so important to raise awareness about the importance of regular screening, vaccination, and safe sex practices.

I urge all women to take charge of their cervical health by getting regular screening, getting vaccinated against HPV, practising safe sex, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Cervical cancer is preventable, and with the right steps, we can reduce the incidence and mortality of this disease. Remember, your health is in your hands! Family Medical Practice

*Dr Olga Sambolska graduated from Lviv National Medical University in 1996 and commenced her medical career at the Volyn Regional Maternity Hospital in Ukraine. Since 1998 she has been a registered obstetrics and gynecology doctor, providing healthcare to women in relation to pregnancy, birth control, menopausal issues, contraception, menstrual cycle diseases and sexually transmitted diseases. She is fluent in Ukrainian, Russian, Polish and English.

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