According to a cancer doctor in Kolkata, cervical cancer develops in the cells of the cervix, which links the uterus to the vagina. Most cervical cancers are caused by different strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection. When the body is exposed to HPV, the immune system usually stops the virus from causing harm.
However, among a small percentage of people, the virus lives for years, contributing to the process by which certain cervical cells develop into cancerous cells. Cervical cancer can be reduced with screening tests and vaccination that protect the body against HPV infection.
Symptoms of cervical cancer:
Cervical cancer, in its early stages, usually has no symptoms. However, you might notice the following signs and symptoms of advanced cervical cancer:
- Vaginal bleeding following intercourse, between periods, or during menopause
- Bloody and watery vaginal discharge with a bad odour
- Pelvic pain or discomfort during intercourse
Causes of cervical cancer:
According to a cancer specialist, cervical cancer develops when healthy cells in the cervix get DNA alterations. The DNA of a cell instructs the cells what to do. Healthy cells proliferate and replicate at a predictable rate before dying after a certain period. The DNA mutation causes the cells to grow and reproduce uncontrollably, and they do not perish. The aberrant cells that are collecting create a bulk (known as a tumour). Cancer cells infect neighbouring tissues and can break away from a tumour to spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body.
What exactly causes cervical cancer is not known. However, HPV is known to have a role in developing cervical cancer. HPV is quite prevalent, and most individuals who have it never get cancer. This indicates that other variables, such as your environment or lifestyle choices, might influence whether you acquire cervical cancer.
Preventative measures for cervical cancer:
Ask your doctor about the HPV vaccination:
Getting vaccinated against HPV may lower your risk of cervical cancer and other HPV-related malignancies. Consult the best cancer doctor in Kolkata to see if an HPV vaccination is right for you.
Have regular Pap testing:
Pap tests can detect precancerous cervix disorders, allowing them to be monitored or treated in order to avoid cervical cancer. The majority of medical organisations recommend starting routine Pap tests at the age of 21 and repeating them every few years.
India accounts for a one-third population of cervical cancer worldwide. January is cervical cancer awareness month. Let’s spread knowledge and prevent the disease from engulfing more people with each passing year.
