Cervical Cancer – Preventable with a Little Attention

The cervical cancer is a disease that manifests as a malignant tumor originating from the tissues of the cervix. The cervix is the area that connects the uterus and the vagina, and the development of the tumor is often associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Although cervical cancer can be well diagnosed in its early stages and treated effectively, the disease still accounts for a significant cause of mortality worldwide. One of the main reasons for this is that women do not always participate in screening tests, leading to many cases being diagnosed at an advanced stage.

The Importance of Regular Screening

The key to preventing cervical cancer lies in regular screening tests. These examinations help detect early changes, such as cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), in a timely manner, allowing for intervention. Another important element of prevention is the HPV vaccine, which reduces the risk of developing the disease.

Cervical Cancer Symptoms, Risk Factors, and Complications

In the following sections, we will take a closer look at the symptoms, risk factors, and complications of cervical cancer.

The Risk Factors for Cervical Cancer

Several factors can contribute to the development of cervical cancer. One of the most significant risk factors is human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which can be detected in 80-90% of cancerous changes. Infection with different types of HPV is particularly likely if a woman frequently changes sexual partners or begins sexual activity at a younger age. Vaccination is recommended for all sexually active women, as it can significantly reduce the risk of cervical cancer.

Statistics show that cervical cancer occurs most frequently among women aged 30-39 and 60-69. In older women, the disease is generally diagnosed at a more advanced stage, which can be partly explained by the low participation rate in screenings. Other risk factors for the development of cervical cancer include smoking, a weakened immune system, various inflammations, and long-term use of contraceptive pills.

Social circumstances can also influence the risk of the disease, as those living in poor conditions often lack access to necessary health services. Therefore, increasing awareness of the importance of screening tests and the HPV vaccine is essential for cervical cancer prevention.

The Symptoms of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer often does not cause clear symptoms in its early stages, making screening tests exceptionally important for diagnosis. Abnormal changes, such as cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, can already be detected during screenings in the early phase of the disease. However, as the disease progresses, women may experience various symptoms.

The most common symptoms of cervical cancer include abundant vaginal discharge, often foul-smelling and bloody. Bleeding may also occur after sexual intercourse, resulting from the mechanical effects of the tumor. As the tumor grows, spontaneous bleeding may occur, especially in advanced stages.

In the advanced stage of the disease, symptoms may worsen, and there may be foul-smelling, purulent, bloody discharge. These symptoms may indicate that the tumor has spread to surrounding tissues, requiring urgent medical intervention. It is important for women to pay attention to their body’s signals and to consult a doctor immediately if they experience any unusual symptoms.

The Complications and Metastases of Cervical Cancer

The complications of cervical cancer can cause serious health problems. As the tumor grows, it can spread to surrounding tissues, affecting the vagina, uterus, bladder, ureters, and rectum. Such spread can lead to various symptoms, such as lower back pain and pain in the lower limbs.

If the tumor spreads to the bladder, symptoms may include painful urination and bleeding. If the rectum is affected, cramping pain during bowel movements or bloody stools may occur. If the tumor also spreads to the ureters, kidney failure may develop, which usually has severe consequences.

Metastases generally occur in the advanced stages of the disease, most commonly affecting the lungs, liver, bones, and brain. These complications also bring about general symptoms of cancer, such as weight loss and overall weakness. Recognizing and treating the complications of cervical cancer is essential to prevent the progression of the disease.