What Is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer occurs in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It is primarily caused by persistent infection with high-risk strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). Early detection through regular screenings significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.
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Cervical Cancer Singapore Statistics
According to the Singapore Cancer Registry Annual Report 2021, cervical cancer is among the most common cancers affecting women in Singapore. It is the 10th most cancer deaths in women from 2017 to 2021.
Who Is Affected By Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer predominantly affects women who are sexually active. The risk is higher for women who have multiple sexual partners, began sexual activity at an early age, or have not undergone regular cervical screenings. However, it is important to note that it can occur in any woman, regardless of her lifestyle.
Symptoms And Causes
Symptoms
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding, such as bleeding between periods, after intercourse, or after menopause.
- Unusual vaginal discharge, which may be watery, pink, or foul-smelling.
- Pelvic pain or pain during sexual intercourse.
Causes
- Persistent infection with high-risk HPV strains.
- Weakened immune system.
- Smoking.
- Long-term use of oral contraceptives.
- Multiple pregnancies.
Medical Conditions That Increases Risk
- Immunosuppression: Women with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV, are at greater risk.
- Chronic HPV infection: Long-term infection with high-risk HPV strains significantly increases the likelihood of developing cervical cancer.
Diagnosis And Tests
- Pap Smear Test: Detects precancerous changes in cervical cells.
- HPV DNA Test: Identifies high-risk HPV strains.
- Colposcopy: Provides a magnified view of the cervix for abnormal areas.
- Biopsy: Confirms the presence of cancerous cells.
Stages
- Stage I: Cancer is confined to the cervix.
- Stage II: Cancer has spread beyond the cervix to the surrounding tissues but not to the pelvic walls or lower vagina.
- Stage III: Cancer has spread to the pelvic walls or lower part of the vagina and may block the ureters.
- Stage IV: Cancer has spread to other parts of the body, such as the bladder, rectum, or distant organs.
Treatments
- Surgery: Includes procedures such as hysterectomy or removal of cancerous tissue.
- Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy: Employs drugs to kill or stop the growth of cancer cells.
- Targeted Therapy: Focuses on specific cancer cell mechanisms.
- Immunotherapy: Enhances the body’s immune system to fight cancer.
Prevention
- HPV Vaccination: Protects against high-risk HPV strains.
- Regular Screenings: Undergo Pap smears and HPV tests as recommended.
- Safe Sexual Practices: Reduce the risk of HPV transmission by using protection and limiting the number of sexual partners.
- Smoking Cessation: Avoid tobacco products to lower the risk.
Schedule A Health Screening
Regular health screenings are crucial for detecting cervical cancer at an early stage. For those seeking cost-effective options, below are health screening packages in Malaysia that include Pap smear tests.
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Contact Us For An Appointment With A Specialist
If you are concerned about your cervical health and wish to consult a specialist, we can help with an appointment. Contact us via the button below.
5 FAQs About Cervical Cancer
Can cervical cancer be detected early?
Yes, regular Pap smears and HPV tests can detect precancerous changes before they develop into cancer.
Is cervical cancer hereditary?
Cervical cancer is not typically hereditary; it is primarily caused by persistent HPV infection.
Can cervical cancer occur in women who have had a hysterectomy?
Women who have had a total hysterectomy (removal of the uterus and cervix) are generally not at risk, but those with a partial hysterectomy may still require screenings.
What is the survival rate for cervical cancer?
Survival rates depend on the stage at diagnosis. Early-stage cervical cancer has a high survival rate with proper treatment.
How often should I get screened? Women aged
25 to 29 should have a Pap smear every three years, while women aged 30 to 69 should have an HPV test every five years, or as advised by their doctor.
Related Articles On Health365
- Women’s Cancers – Risks, Symptoms And Treatment In Singapore
- Breast Cancer
- Cervical Cancer
- Ovarian Cancer
- Uterine Cancer
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This article is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.