Cervical cancer awareness is crucial for every woman. At Saathi, we're committed to supporting women's health and well-being. This guide provides essential information on cervical cancer, prevention, and how to take proactive steps for your health.

Cancer is one of the health phenomena around the world that many doctors and health practitioners are studying intently about, and are baffled by. Cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide, causing millions of deaths and even more damage every year. Cancer is a leading contender in the grand list of illnesses that women are plagued by; and according to the National Institute of Cancer Prevention and Research – In India the top three cancers in women are Breast Cancer, Cervical Cancer, and Colorectal Cancer. Similar trends are observed worldwide, wherein Cervical Cancer and Breast Cancer are notoriously high in the lists of cancers that women experience and are affected by worldwide.

Understanding Cervical Cancer

Did you know that almost all Cervical Cancer cases are due to a single virus and this is entirely preventable? HPV which stands for Human Papilloma Virus is a virus that is mostly spread via sexual contact, and can also be given from a mother to the baby during pregnancy or birth. The HPV family of viruses has a plethora of virus members, but particularly HPV 16 and 18 are responsible for causing about 70% of all cervical cancers according to the WHO and the CDC. The HPV is a clever virus wherein it expresses genes, which merge into the human DNA and alter it in a way that it halts the normal cell cycle, and causes an overproduction of cells which eventually turns into a tumor, and then cancer.

Key risk factors include:

• HPV infection
• Smoking
• Weakened immune system
• Multiple sexual partners 

Actionable Step: Assess your personal risk factors. If you have concerns, talk to a healthcare professional.

Potential symptoms may include:

• Unusual vaginal bleeding
• Pelvic pain
• Abnormal vaginal discharge

Actionable Step: If you experience any unusual vaginal bleeding, discharge, or pelvic pain, seek medical advice immediately.

But what if you learn that all of this is preventable?

Prevention and Screening

Yes, almost all cases of HPV are virtually preventable by the use of protection during sexual intercourse. While smoking and a poor immunity may fortify the risk caused by an HPV infection, it is an HPV infection that is the root cause of this cancer and can be easily prevented by using barrier protection like condoms and diaphragms. Other forms of birth control like IUDs, pills, or subdermal implants are good for preventing pregnancy and controlling hormones; but to prevent STDs, the best way to go is using barrier protection AND getting an STD panel done regularly, especially if you have multiple sexual partners or engage in casual sex. Nothing wrong with any of these practices, as it is always better to have responsible and safe sex no matter who it is with and how many times it is.

Regular Screenings: Your First Line of Defense

Thanks to scientific development, there are two key preventative practices for HPV. The first one is a Papanicolaou Smear or simply called, a Pap Smear. Women over the age of 21 up to the age of 50-65 are recommended to do a Pap Smear every 3-5 years as a part of a regular wellness exam, especially if one is sexually active. A Pap Smear is a very simple and easy test, where one’s vagina is opened with a speculum and using a cytobrush, some cells are collected from the visible part of the cervix and tested under the microscope to note for any obvious cellular changes denoting a cancer or a precancerous situation. Check out this story about what to expect when you get a Pap Smear. Women of all sexual orientations are suggested to do this test, as penetrative sex isn’t the only sex that causes an HPV infection.

Actionable Steps: Schedule your regular cervical cancer screening according to your doctor's recommendations.

The Power of Prevention: HPV Vaccination

The second preventative measure is the HPV Vaccination. Ideally, girls and boys aged 9-14 years old should be given either one or two doses of the HPV vaccine before they’re sexually active to ensure maximum efficacy from the vaccination. But even with older individuals, the vaccine can offer good immunity. Especially women aged 21 and above can take vaccines on a two dosed schedule six months apart. This offers significant protection against HPV.

Actionable Step: If you or your children are eligible, discuss HPV vaccination with your doctor.

Supporting Your Health and Well-being

Good menstrual hygiene is essential for overall health. During your menstrual cycle, using comfortable and sustainable menstrual products like Saathi pads or cups can contribute to your well-being. A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can support your overall health. Find reliable information and support from organizations like the WHO and your healthcare professional.

Spread Awareness, Save Lives: Share This Information

Cervical cancer awareness is not just a personal responsibility; it's a collective effort. By sharing this information, you empower others to take control of their health. Many women around the world lack access to vital information about cervical cancer, its prevention, and screening methods. Your voice can bridge this gap.

Imagine the impact of every shared blog, every conversation started, and every screening appointment scheduled. By spreading awareness, you're not just sharing facts; you're offering hope and potentially saving lives. Let’s break down the stigmas and build a community where everyone feels empowered to prioritize their well-being.

Share this article with your friends, family, and social networks. Encourage open conversations about cervical cancer, and let’s work together to create a world where this preventable disease no longer threatens the lives of women. Let's make a difference, one share at a time. Most importantly – 1. Engage in safe, responsible sex; and 2. Try to take the vaccine if it is applicable to you. Stay Safe, STAY Healthy!