Cervical Cancer: Symptoms, Types, and Treatment
Cervical cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women. Thousands of women in our country are diagnosed with cervical cancer every year, and thousands of women also lose their lives due to cervical cancer. It is possible to prevent deaths due to cervical cancer through vaccination and screening.
What Is Cervical Cancer?
The cervix is a structure located at the bottom of the uterus and connected to the vagina. Cancer develops as a result of the uncontrolled growth of cells in the cervix, also known as the uterine cervix. A virus called Human Papillomavirus (HPV) plays a role in the development of most cervical cancers. In some individuals infected with HPV, the virus remains in the cervical cells for years and leads to uncontrolled cell division, resulting in cancer.
Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer may not show any symptoms in the early stages. When the disease progresses, symptoms related to cancer may include:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding (during or after sexual intercourse, between menstrual periods, after menopause)
- Changes in vaginal discharge
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Pain in the lower back or lower abdomen
Individuals with uterine-related conditions such as endometriosis may also experience symptoms similar to cervical cancer. These individuals should undergo necessary screenings if there is an increase in the number, frequency, or severity of symptoms.
Types of Cervical Cancer
There are different subtypes of cervical cancer. Determining which type of cervical cancer a patient has is crucial for the course and treatment of the disease.
1. Squamous Cell Carcinoma:
It develops in the part of the cervix that opens towards the vagina. It occurs due to the uncontrolled growth of thin, flat (squamous) cells in this region. Most cervical cancers are of this type.
2. Adenocarcinoma:
It originates from the long, cylindrical cells responsible for producing secretions in the cervical canal.
In some cases, a patient may develop both types of cancer simultaneously. Rarely, cancer can originate from other cells in the cervix.
Risk Factors for Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer occurs due to mutations in the DNA of cells in the cervix. Healthy cells divide at a certain rate and die when the time comes. However, in cancer cells, these control mechanisms are disrupted. Cancer cells divide rapidly and uncontrollably, eventually forming masses known as tumors. The spread of cancer cells to surrounding tissues or different parts of the body further advances the disease.
Factors that increase the risk of cervical cancer include:
- Multiple Sexual Partners
- Early Sexual Activity
- Sexually Transmitted Infections
- Weak Immune System
- Smoking
Diagnosis and Treatment Methods for Cervical Cancer
The diagnosis of cervical cancer can be based on the individual's symptoms or through screening tests.
Screening Tests:
- Pap Smear Test
- HPV DNA Test
Treatment Methods:
- Surgery
- Radiation Therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted Therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Supportive (Palliative) Care
Methods for Prevention of Cervical Cancer
Nearly all cases of cervical cancer are associated with HPV. Therefore, protecting against HPV infection can also help prevent cervical cancer. HPV vaccines have been developed for this purpose. Vaccinating individuals, especially those aged 9-26, significantly reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer in the future.
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Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you have any health concerns or are experiencing symptoms, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or clinic, for proper diagnosis and treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.
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