The German Cancer Research Center has reported that cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers among women worldwide, highlighting the availability of a vaccine against the human papillomavirus (HPV), the primary cause of this cancer.
The center explained that there are over 200 types of HPV, which primarily infect the skin or mucous membranes. Infection occurs through direct skin contact or sexual activity.
While most HPV types cause non-harmful conditions such as skin or genital warts, certain strains carry a risk of developing precancerous lesions and, over time, cancers of the reproductive organs or oropharynx.
Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
Common symptoms include:
- Abnormal vaginal discharge in color or odor.
- Pain during sexual intercourse.
- Bleeding during or after intercourse.
- Bleeding outside of the menstrual cycle or after menopause.
- Pelvic or lower back pain.
- Swelling of the legs due to lymphatic fluid congestion.
- Pain during urination or bowel movements.
Treatment Options
It is essential to consult a physician promptly if any of these symptoms appear for proper diagnosis and treatment.
- For women diagnosed in early stages, surgical removal of the uterus is typically performed.
- Women wishing to preserve fertility may undergo a less extensive surgery to retain the uterus.
- For larger tumors, doctors recommend radiation therapy combined with concurrent chemotherapy to achieve optimal treatment outcomes.
