Can Cervical Cancer be treated?

Can Cervical Cancer be treated?

Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women around the world. It is a cancer that develops in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. One can reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer through screening and preventive measures.  Early detection of this cancer leads to high cure rates with available treatment modalities. Hence it is crucial to raise awareness and spread knowledge to combat this disease. In this blog, I will discuss the symptoms, causes, risk factors, diagnostic procedures, treatment options, and preventive measures related to cervical cancer.

What is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the cervix grow out of control, developing into tumours. In many cases, it develops slowly and starts as a pre-cancerous condition known as cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). If untreated, CIN may develop into invasive cervical cancer. There are two major types of cervical cancer:

• Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): It constitutes approximately 90% of cervical cancer and develops from the squamous cells lining the outer surface of the cervix.
• Adenocarcinoma: It develops in the glandular cells which produce mucus in the cervical canal.

Symptoms of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer often does not produce symptoms in its early stages, which makes routine screenings crucial. However, as the disease progresses, women may experience:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding, such as bleeding between periods, after intercourse, or after menopause.
• Unusual vaginal discharge that may be watery, pink, or have a foul odour.
• Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse.
• Increased frequency or urgency of urination.
• Leg swelling or pain in advanced stages.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider promptly for evaluation.

What causes Cervical Cancer?

The main cause of cervical cancer is the persistent infection by high-risk types of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection. HPV causes approximately all cervical cancers, but not all infections caused by HPV result in cancer. Many factors affect the development of cervical cancer from an HPV infection, including the individual immune response and any other concurrent health conditions that they might have.

What are the Risk Factors for Cervical Cancer

There are several factors which can increase the risk of cervical cancer among women, such as:

• HPV Infection: Long-term infection by high-risk HPV types, such as HPV-16 and HPV-18, is the major risk factor for developing cervical cancer.
• Smoking: Women smokers are two times more likely to suffer from cervical cancer because tobacco harms the cervical cells.
• Weakened Immune System: Conditions such as HIV/AIDS or the use of immunosuppressive drugs weaken the body’s ability to fight back against infections, which increase susceptibility to HPV.
• Early Sexual Activity: Performing sexual activity at a young age increases the vulnerability of exposure to HPV.
• Multiple Sexual Partners: Having multiple partners or a partner with many former sexual partners raises the prospect of HPV transmission.
• Long-Term Use of Oral Contraceptives: Taking birth control pills for five or more years, has been reported to lead to an increased risk of cervical cancer. This risk reduces after stopping the drug.
• Family History: Individuals with a family history of cervical cancer are at a higher risk of developing the disease as they may share the same risk factors.

How to diagnose Cervical Cancer?

Early detection of cervical cancer is essential for proper treatment. Routine screening tests can detect abnormal changes in the cervix before they develop into cancer. Some of the common diagnostic methods include:

1. Pap Smear Test (Pap Test): it is a screening procedure which collects cells from the cervix to detect precancerous or cancerous changes.
2. HPV Test: This is also a screening test, and it detects high-risk types of HPV that may cause cervical cancer.
3. Colposcopy: In this procedure, a magnification instrument is used to examine the cervix closer to see for lesions if anything abnormal is found in a Pap smear.
4. Biopsy: During the procedure, a small sample of cervical tissue is extracted and looked at under a microscope to verify the presence of cancerous cells.
5. Imaging Tests: In advanced cases, imaging studies like a CT scan, MRI, or PET scans may be conducted to know the extent of cancer spread.

Screening tests suggest the possibility of cancer and confirmation of cancer is by biopsy of the abnormal lesion. Colposcopy may help to identify lesions for biopsy that are not visible to the naked eye. Imaging tests are done after confirmation of the diagnosis.

How to Treatment Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer treatment depends on the stage of the disease, the general health of the patient, and their preferences towards treatment. Common treatments may include:

1. Surgery

• Conization: The procedure involves removing only the cancerous part of the cervix and is usually applied during the precancerous and very early stages.
• Radical Trachelectomy: In this procedure, the cervix is removed while preserving fertility and is done in selected cases with small tumors.
• Hysterectomy: This involves removal of the uterus and cervix and may be required in cases where the tumor is limited to the cervix.

2. Radiation Therapy

High-energy radiation is used to kill the cancer cells. Chemotherapy is then combined with radiation therapy for more advanced cases of cancer which include cases where cancer has spread to surrounding tissues or lymph nodes.

3. Chemotherapy

Involves drugs that can destroy or inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Usually administered in combination with radiation therapy or cancer that has spread to other areas or organs.

4. Targeted Therapy

Involves drugs that specifically target the tumor while sparing the healthy tissues. Bevacizumab, such as Avastin, is an example that may be used for advanced cases of cervical cancer.

5. Immunotherapy

Boosts the body’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. This is a newer treatment option being explored for cervical cancer.

Preventive Measure for Cervical Cancer

Preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of cervical cancer. Here are some of the key strategies to adopt:

1. HPV Vaccination: (Most effective)

• Gardasil, Cervarix and Cervavac vaccines prevent against high-risk HPV types.
• Recommended for girls and boys aged between 9 and 14 years but may be administered up to age 26 years or later in specific cases.

2. Routine Screening:

• The Pap smear test and HPV tests are effective for identifying precancerous changes in the cervix early.
• Sexually active women should first be screened at the age 25 years and follow their healthcare provider's recommendation afterwards.

3. Safe Sexual Practices:

Using condoms and reduction of sexual partners lowers the risk of contracting HPV infection.

4. Quit Smoking:

Avoiding smoke reduces the risk of cervical cancer and other HPV-related cancers.

5. Healthy Lifestyle:

A healthy diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep help to support the immune system and fight all infections, including the HPV viruses.

When to See a Doctor

You should see a doctor if you have bleeding that is different from your normal period, discharge that is unusual for you, or pelvic pain. Women should also participate in all recommended cervical cancer screenings and report back immediately after any abnormal results.

Key Facts About Cervical Cancer

1. This is the fourth most common form of female cancer worldwide and the second most common cancer in females in India.
2. Almost all cases are linked to HPV, but not all HPV infections lead to cancer.
3. Cervical cancer is highly preventable through vaccination and regular screening.
4. Early-stage cervical cancer has a very high survival rate, so early detection is crucial.

Tips for patients living with Cervical Cancer

A cervical cancer diagnosis is a life-altering incident, but there is support available. Here are some tips for coping with cervical cancer:

• Avail Emotional Support: Seek support from support groups or a counsellor to help deal with the emotional shocks of a cancer diagnosis.
• Adhere to the Treatment Plan: Listen to your healthcare provider and follow the recommended treatment process.
• Follow a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet and good nutrition helps in recovery and maintaining overall well-being.
• Stay Informed: Know your condition and your treatment options to empower your own decisions about your care.

Conclusion

With proper care and early detection, Cervical cancer can be prevented and treated well. Due to advancements in HPV vaccination, routine screenings, and effective treatments, women can significantly reduce their risk.  Awareness and education combined with proactive measures by a healthcare professional help women to take control over their health and well-being.