A curable, slow-growing cancer that initially develops in the cervix and, if untreated, can spread to the other reproductive organs. Cancer of the cervix chiefly occurs in women between the ages of 30 and 55 and is nearly 100 percent curable when caught in the precancerous stage. It is one of the few cancers that has well- defined, recognizable precancerous stages. Before the cancer appears, abnormal changes occur in the cells on the surface of the cervix. The precancerous condition, cervical dysplasia, is categorized in various stages. The mildly abnormal cells may return to normal or may eventually develop into cancer. Severe dysplasia and early cancer can be treated and entirely cured.
Cervical cancer, one of the most prevalent forms of cancer among women worldwide, primarily affects the cervix, which is the neck of the uterus. The progression of this cancer involves distinct precancerous stages characterized by abnormal changes in the surface cells of the cervix. The detection of these changes can be accomplished through a cervical smear test. Early detection often enables prompt treatment, leading to a complete cure. However, if left untreated, cervical cancer has the potential to spread to nearby pelvic organs.
Cervical cancer is classified into two primary types: squamous cell carcinoma, which is the more common form, and the less frequent adenocarcinoma.
The squamous type of cervical cancer is believed to be linked to certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), which can be acquired through sexual intercourse. Additionally, factors that increase a woman’s susceptibility to developing this type of cancer include smoking, early initiation of sexual activity, multiple sexual partners, and a weakened immune system.
Adenocarcinoma, the second type of cervical cancer, can occasionally occur in women who have never engaged in sexual intercourse. The specific causes of adenocarcinoma are currently unknown.
In numerous instances, cervical cancer is detected prior to the onset of symptoms. However, if the condition has progressed, certain symptoms may manifest. These can include unexpected vaginal bleeding or a discharge tinged with blood occurring between menstrual periods, after sexual intercourse, or after menopause. Pain may be experienced if the cancer has spread to the deeper areas of the cervix and surrounding pelvic tissues.
If a cervical smear test yields an abnormal result, further examinations such as colposcopy, which involves visually inspecting the cervix using a viewing instrument, or a cone biopsy may be conducted.
Early-stage localized cervical cancer can be treated through various methods including electrocoagulation (using an electric current), diathermy (heat treatment), laser treatment, or cryosurgery (freezing), with the aim of eliminating the cancerous cells.
If cervical cancer has spread into the cervical canal, a cone biopsy may be performed to remove all the affected tissue. For more advanced cases involving the pelvic organs, radiotherapy may be administered as a treatment. In severe instances, radical surgery may be recommended, involving the removal of the bladder, vagina, cervix, uterus, and rectum. Chemotherapy might also be utilized in conjunction with the surgery.