January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month (CCAM) and it’s an opportunity to raise awareness about the prevention and early intervention of one of the most common and preventable cancers in women.
Cervical cancer develops slowly over time and starts in the cells of the cervix. The cervix connects the upper part of the uterus and anyone with a cervix can develop cervical cancer. Most cases of cervical cancer are caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection, and while most infections clear on their own, persistent infections can lead to cervical cancer over time. The body’s immune system typically prevents HPV from doing any harm, however, in a small percentage of people, the virus survives for years and contributes to the process that causes some cervical cells to become cancer cells.
In 2020, 11,542 new cases of cervical cancer were reported among women in the United States, and 4,272 women died of this cancer. Every day in Tennessee, a woman is diagnosed with cervical cancer, and every three days one dies from the disease. Globally, cervical cancer is in the top ten most common cancers in women, with 604,000 new cases recorded in 2020. About 90% of the 342,000 deaths caused by cervical cancer occurred in low- and middle-income countries.
Risk Factors:
Other risk factors can contribute to the development of cervical cancer, which include:
● HPV Infection: HPV is the primary cause of cervical cancer and is responsible for over 90% of diagnoses.
● Smoking: Tobacco use has been linked to an increased risk of cervical cancer.
● Long-term Use of Oral Contraceptives: Prolonged use of certain birth control pills may contribute to the risk.
Prevention:
While there is no guarantee to prevent cervical cancer, maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, routine screenings, and the HPV vaccine all help to reduce the risk. The Center for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends beginning the HPV vaccine series as low as the age of 9 with the possibility of continuing from age 27 to 45.
Women should also seek screening for cervical cancer every 5–10 years starting at age 30. Screening includes cervical cytology (also called the Pap test or Pap smear) and testing for human papillomavirus (HPV). Getting routinely checked has been known to save lives, with the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologistssaying the number of cervical cancer cases and deaths has decreased by one-half over the past 30 years.
Symptoms and Treatment:
Cervical cancer may not cause noticeable signs and symptoms in its early stages, which is why regular screening is important for early detection. As the cancer progresses, symptoms may become more apparent. Some common symptoms of cervical cancer include:
● Abnormal vaginal bleeding
● Pelvic pain
● Vaginal discharge
● Pain during urination
● Back pain or leg swelling
● Weight loss, fatigue, and loss of appetite
If cervical cancer develops, it’s often treated with surgery to remove the cancer. Other treatments can include chemotherapy or targeted therapy medicines to kill the cancer cells. Radiation therapy is also used along with low-dose chemotherapy.
A Global Call to Action:
The World Health Organization (WHO) has set out a global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem by 2120. To guide countries towards achieving this goal by 2030, three specific targets have been established:
● 90% of girls vaccinated with the HPV vaccine by age 15.
● 70% of women screened with a high-quality test by ages 35 and 45.
● 90% of women with cervical disease receiving treatment.
By achieving this goal, the WHO estimates that 74 million new cases of cervical cancer can be averted, and 62 million deaths can be avoided.
Cervical Cancer Awareness Month is a time to raise awareness about cervical cancer and get informed, get screened, and get vaccinated. Committing to this is not just a matter of health; it’s also a human right. Participating in Cervical Cancer Awareness Month contributes to the global effort to eradicate preventable diseases and promote a healthier, more equitable world.
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Sources:
World Health Organization: Cervical Cancer Awareness Month 2023
Tenessee Health Department: Cervical Cancer Information and Screening Guidelines
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Cancer Statistics At a Glance
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Cervical Cancer
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Cervical Cancer Screening
