Cervical Cancer in Women: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention, and HPV Vaccination in India

Cervical Cancer in Female

Cervical cancer is a growth of cells that starts in the cervix. Most cervical cancers are caused by HPV (Human Papillomavirus). HPV is a virus that spreads through sexual contact. Cervical cancer often doesn’t cause symptoms until it begins to spread. That’s why regular screening and the HPV vaccine are so important.

Cervical cancer remains a significant public health issue, particularly impacting women globally. Cervical cancer is a significant health concern in India, being one of the leading causes of cancer mortality among women. Cultural stigma, lack of awareness, financial constraints, and limited access to healthcare facilities hinder women’s participation in screening programs. Vaccines are available and are vital in preventing HPV-related cervical cancers.

Regular screening through Pap tests and HPV tests is essential for early detection. Organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) are promoting strategies to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem. This includes increasing vaccination, improving screening, and providing treatment. Increasing awareness about cervical cancer, its risk factors, symptoms, and preventive measures is crucial. Education plays a pivotal role in encouraging women to undergo regular screenings.

Symptoms

• Watery or bloody vaginal discharge with a foul odor.

• Vaginal bleeding after sex, between menstrual periods, or after menopause.

• Pain during sex.

• Painful urination, sometimes with blood in the urine.

• Fatigue, loss of weight, and appetite.

• Dull backache or swelling in the legs.

• Pelvic/abdominal pain.

Cervical Cancer Vaccination in India

The vaccine for cervical cancer primarily targets the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which is responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases.

1. Types of Vaccines:

   • Cervarix (bivalent)

   • Gardasil (quadrivalent)

2. Vaccination Age:The vaccines are generally recommended for pre-adolescent girls aged 9 to 14 years, before they become sexually active. Catch-up vaccination can be considered for older girls and women up to 45 years of age.

3. Government Initiatives:The Indian government has initiated programs to improve awareness and access to HPV vaccination, especially in schools, to target young girls and increase vaccination coverage.

4. Challenges:

   • Awareness: There is limited awareness about the importance of HPV vaccination among the general population and healthcare providers.

   • Affordability: The cost of vaccination can be a barrier, particularly in low-income communities.

   • Availability: Access to the vaccine can be limited in rural areas, where healthcare infrastructure is underdeveloped.

5. School-Based Programs:Some states in India are implementing school-based vaccination programs to ensure that girls receive the vaccine. This approach aims to increase vaccination coverage and promote awareness among families.

6. Public Health Campaigns:Campaigns are being run to educate the public about cervical cancer, HPV, and the benefits of vaccination. Collaboration with NGOs and community health workers is helping to spread this information.

Awareness Days

• Cervical Cancer Prevention Day: Observed annually on January 26th, this day is dedicated to raising awareness about cervical cancer, its causes, prevention methods, and the importance of vaccination against HPV.

• Cervical Cancer Prevention Week: Observed from January 22nd to January 28th, this week emphasizes awareness about cervical cancer, its risk factors, and preventive measures.