Not enough awareness about cervical cancer in rural India, say experts at Fortis Escorts Hospital Jaipur

Not enough awareness about cervical cancer in rural India, say experts at Fortis Escorts Hospital Jaipur 

According to the Globocan 2020 report, Cervical Cancer is the second most common cancer (first being Breast Cancer) affecting women in India 

 Jaipur, January, 2024: Cervical cancer ranks 4th on the top most cancers affecting women worldwide, according to a report published by Globocan (Global Cancer Observatory). In India, cervical cancer is only second to breast cancer, which is at number 1. The last few years have seen a slight decrease in cases of cervical cancer in urban India — because of adherence to standard screening protocol and increased awareness; but we have a long way to go in terms of more awareness and screenings in rural India. Dr. Manish Kaushik, Consultant, Surgical Oncology, Fortis Escorts Hospital Jaipur, discusses risk factors causing this cancer, steps that can be taken for prevention and spreading awareness.  

 Dr. Manish Kaushik, Consultant, Surgical Oncology, Fortis Escorts Hospital Jaipur, says, “Many factors lead to cervical cancer, some of them are — HPV (Human Papilloma Virus), smoking, poor hygiene of vaginal area, multiple sexual partners, intercourse at an early age, and use of oral contraceptive pills. Some of the early signs and symptoms of the cervical cancer could be — vaginal bleeding mainly during or after intercourse, bleeding in between menstrual cycles, pain during intercourse, and foul-smelling vaginal discharge. In the advanced stage, the signs and symptoms could be pelvic/lower abdomen pain, blood in urine, urinary incontinence, back ache, flank pain, etc. As soon as one notices any of these symptoms, they should consult their doctor on an urgent basis.”  

Awareness of the HPV Vaccine that prevents the possibility of getting cervical cancer is essential, especially in rural India. Dr. Kaushik, asserts, “The primary prevention for this type of cancer is HPV vaccine. As per WHO recommendation, girls in the age group of 9-14 years are eligible for 2 doses, while women from 15-26 years of age need 3 doses. In terms of secondary prevention, regular screening is a must for women aged between 30-65. They must see a specialist on a regular basis and go for PAP Smear tests for any risks and signs.” Screening helps in early detection of cancer, which ultimately results in better overall outcome for all patients.