Cervical Cancer
Cervical Cancer
One of the most common oncological diseases in women — mainly related to HPV and treatable when detected early.
Cervical cancer is one of the most common oncological diseases among women. It develops mainly in connection with HPV (Human Papillomavirus) and can progress without symptoms for a long time. If detected in time, it is among the types of cancer that can be treated. Risk factors include HPV infection (especially types 16 and 18), starting sexual activity at an early age, multiple sexual partners, smoking, long-term use of hormonal contraceptives and a weakened immune system. Cervical cancer is a disease that can be prevented and treated at an early stage; for the sake of her health, every woman should make regular gynecological examination an integral part of her life.
Symptoms
- Bleeding after intercourse
- Bleeding outside of menstruation
- Unusual and foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- Pain during intercourse
- Discomfort in the lower abdomen or lower back
When to see a doctor
You should see a doctor without delay if you have bleeding after intercourse or outside of menstruation, foul-smelling discharge, pain during intercourse, or persistent discomfort in the lower abdomen or lower back. Even without these symptoms, preventive examination with a regular Pap smear and HPV test is important.
Diagnostics
For diagnosis and early detection, regular Pap smears and HPV testing, preventive examinations with colposcopy and, when necessary, a biopsy are performed. HPV vaccination (usually recommended between ages 9-26) plays an important role in preventing the disease. Imaging methods may also be used to assess how far the disease has spread.
Treatment
Treatment differs according to the stage of the disease, the cell type and the general health condition of the patient. In the early stages, surgical removal of the cervix or the entire uterus (hysterectomy) may be used. In local or widespread cases, radiation therapy (radiotherapy) is used to destroy tumor cells, and chemotherapy is used especially in advanced stages or together with radiotherapy. Targeted therapy and immunotherapy, which specifically target tumor cells with new-generation drugs, may also be included in the treatment plan. The treatment method is chosen individually for each patient depending on the case, at the doctor's discretion.
Frequently asked questions
Can cervical cancer be prevented?
Yes. Thanks to regular Pap smears and HPV testing, colposcopic examinations and HPV vaccination, precancerous changes can be detected early and treated. This makes cervical cancer a largely preventable disease.
What are the chances of treatment if it is detected early?
Cervical cancer detected at an early stage is among the types that respond well to treatment. For this reason, regular gynecological examination and screening are of decisive importance.
