Cervical Cancer develops in a Woman’s Cervix, the lower part of the uterus or womb, which opens into the vagina. Virtually all cervical cancer cases (99%) are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), an extremely common virus that is spread through skin-to-skin contact.
Most HPV infections are cleared by the immune system and cause no symptoms. But in some cases, infection can persist and lead to cervical cancer developing. Cervical cancer can be easily prevented through vaccination against HPV and regular screening.
When diagnosed early and managed effectively, Cervical Cancer is one of the most successfully treatable forms of cancer. But caught too late, the outcomes are not nearly as good. Cancers diagnosed at a late stage can be controlled with appropriate treatment and palliative care. Through prevention, screening and treatment, we can end cervical cancer as a public health problem within a few generations.
See a doctor straight away if you experience:
- Irregular bleeding between periods, after the menopause or after sexual intercourse.
- Increased or foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
- Persistent pain in the back, legs or pelvis.
- Weight loss, fatigue and loss of appetite.
- Vaginal discomfort.
- Swelling of legs.
Cervical Cancer in its early stages may present no symptoms. This is why regular cervical cancer screening is important, even if vaccinated against HPV.
Read more at: https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/features/cervical-cancer.html
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