Cervical Cancer - Pel
Cervical Cancer - Pel
Cervical Cancer - Pel
Your cervix is the lowest part of your uterus (or womb), and it is found at the top of your vagina.
Diagram showing the female reproductive system. The cervix is at the top of the vagina.
Cervical cancer happens when cells in the cervix grow in an uncontrolled way and build up to form a
lump (also called a tumor). As the tumor grows, cells can eventually spread to other parts of the body
and become life-threatening.
However, women who are at the highest risk are those who –
Are above the age of 40 years and have ever had sexual relations.
Start sexual intercourse at a very young age.
Have sexual relations with multiple partners.
Have too many children, especially at a young age.
Smoke tobacco.
Have HIV infection.
discomfort or problem. These cells grow very slowly. A woman starts to have problems only when the
cancer grows and spreads to the surrounding area and other organs.
There are several problems that a woman may start to experience. They are –
If you or any of your friends, relatives, or neighbors have these problems, consult a doctor immediately.
These problems may be due to cervical cancer.
The best way to prevent cervical cancer is to avoid infection from HPV and to have special tests
(screening tests) done that can detect cervical pre-cancers.
All women aged 30 years and above should undergo cervical cancer screening tests at least once in 3–5
years.
To avoid infection from HPV - this is done by vaccinating young girls before they start to have sexual
contacts. All girls should be vaccinated against HPV between the age of 9–13 years. Vaccinated girls have
very little risk of getting cervical cancer.
Visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) – In this test, a dilute solution of acetic acid (vinegar) is
applied on the surface of cervix. The test results can be seen in 1 minute after applying the
solution. If there is any abnormal area, it appears white in color and can be easily identified.
HPV test – Cells from the cervix are collected with the help of a special brush. The collected cells
are put inside a small vial containing a solution and sent to a laboratory for examination. The
results are available in about a week’s time.
PAP smear – This is a simple test where a small scraper or brush is used to collect cells from the
cervix. The collected cells are smeared on a slide or into a solution and sent to a laboratory for
examination. The results are obtained in about a week’s time.