Cervical cancer starts to grow in the lower part of the uterus called the cervix which is connected to the top part of the vagina. It can be caused by several predisposing factors such as human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, having multiple sexual partners, contraceptives, smoking, etc.
The most common cause of cervical cancer is prolonged human papillomavirus (HPV virus) infection and is transmitted through sexual or skin to skin contact. However, it’s not all types of the HPV virus that cause cervical cancer.
Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer in females in developing countries and second leading cause of cancer in females in Nigeria, according to the World Health Organisation. Statistics show that a woman dies every two minutes from cervical cancer around the world and is mainly common in women from ages 14 to 45 years.
Pap smear
Pap smears are cervical screening exams done to check if you’re at risk of cervical cancer. Routine testing is advisable to keep you abreast of your reproductive health. The guidelines for women’s first Pap smear test should be 21 years but ideally from the time women become sexually active. The doctor scoops little samples of the cervix tissues to test for any changes in the cells. If test results are abnormal, further testing will be conducted to check for precancerous changes or cancer.
Medical practitioners are currently trying to raise awareness for the tests to be done more regularly, as regular testing can help reduce the prevalence and mortality of the disease. Knowing your diagnosis early greatly improves your chances of survival and can very often be cured if discovered early. Vaccines are now available to prevent the most common types of HPV virus.
Free screening
Two major challenges faced with routine testing are expenses and enlightenment. Currently, there are very few clinics and foundations that offer free cervical cancer screenings. One place which still offers free screening, every Friday, is Optimal Cancer Care Foundation in Surulere, Lagos, Nigeria.
The government needs to organize more campaigns to educate more women on cervical cancer and screening as well as offering free cervical screening services to the public.
Remember, regular cervical screening can literally save your life, so ensure you get tested, ladies!
