January is dedicated to raising awareness about cervical cancer, and the knowledge we gain during this month can be a powerful tool in our fight against this disease. As we navigate through January, let’s arm ourselves with knowledge to promote awareness and work towards a future free from the shadows of cervical cancer.
What is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer originates in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus. It is commonly caused by persistent infections of high-risk strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), presenting a significant health concern for women globally.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cervical cancer ranks as the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide. In 2020, approximately 604,127 women received a cervical cancer diagnosis, with 342,224 losing their lives to this disease. The burden is particularly heavy in low- and middle-income countries, where around 90% of cervical cancer deaths occur.
Important Facts About Cervical Cancer
Cervical Cancer is responsible for 6.6% of female cancer deaths worldwide
Cervical cancer affects 280,000 women globally annually, with over 500,000 new diagnoses. Regular screening is crucial to preventing these deaths, especially in low- or middle-income countries. However, less than 3% of women in regions where screening is essential undergo it within the recommended guidelines.
Cervical cancer is Caused By The Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
Persistent HPV, which is a common sexually transmitted infection, can significantly increase the risk of cervical cancer.
Age Is A Risk Factor
While cervical cancer can affect women of any age, it most commonly occurs in midlife. Regular screenings are crucial for women aged 21 and above.
It can take 15 to 20 years to develop cervical cancer with normal immune systems.
Cancer is a concerning issue for patients, but standard screening at recommended intervals can prevent most abnormalities from developing into cancer.
Black women die at a rate nearly twice as high as white women.
Black women are dying of cervical cancer at nearly twice the rate of white women due to race dynamics in healthcare, lack of access, and delayed screening due to factors like lack of awareness or difficulty accessing services.
Regular Screenings Are Important For Early detection.
Regular screenings are essential because symptoms may only become noticeable when the cancer has advanced. Regular screenings, such as Pap smears and HPV tests, are essential tools for early detection. These screenings help identify abnormalities before they progress to advanced stages.
Cervical cancer is not just a medical term; it’s a journey that women navigate, often quietly. Each year, cervical cancer claims the health and well-being of numerous women, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and proactive healthcare measures. By understanding the facts, recognizing the importance of screenings, and adopting preventive measures, we can collectively strive for a world where cervical cancer is no longer a pervasive threat to women’s health.
Medbury Laboratory and Diagnostics, a division of Medbury Healthcare, offers cervical cancer screenings. We conduct pap smears and HPV tests to detect cervical problems. To provide accurate and dependable findings, our highly educated medical experts employ cutting-edge equipment and strictly adhere to quality control procedures. Contact us today!
No Comments