Did you know that cervical cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women? It currently ranks fourth as the cause of cancer in women in the UAE, and it is also ranked fourth as a cause of death among women. However, early detection can make a real difference in survival rates.
In this article, we will explore cervical cancer, why early detection is critical, and some details about how and when to get screened.
What is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that affects the cervix, the lower part of the uterus (womb), that connects to the vagina. It is caused by the abnormal growth of cells which may eventually spread to other parts of the body if not promptly treated. Symptoms include vaginal bleeding, abnormal vaginal discharges, pain during sex, heavier periods, or bleeding between periods.
Cervical cancer is usually found in women between the ages of 35 and 45, and it is a significant cause of mortality among women. As mentioned above, it ranks fourth as the cause of death in sexually active women. But early detection is the key to improving survival rates for this type of cancer, and screening is the best way to detect the early stages before it spreads.
The leading cause of cervical cancer is the human papillomavirus. This virus is commonly transmitted through sexual intercourse, which is why the risk in young women starts after they are sexually active. Other causes that may facilitate cancer growth include genetics and a weakened immune system.
Early detection increases cervical cancer survival
Cervical cancer is a common malignancy among women, even in parts of the world where medical attention is at its best. But early detection of this cancer is the best way to promote long-term survival.
Studies show that if you diagnose cervical cancer at an early stage through one of the screening methods listed above, the 5-year survival rate is 92%. But if you wait for symptoms to show up on their own, maybe cervical cancer has already spread to other tissues. If you are diagnosed in a late stage, the 5-year survival rate is only 59%. Clearly, screening can make a difference in the treatment, especially if you come to the best gynecology doctors in Dubai.
Early detection of cervical cancer is critical to long-term survival. By being aware of the risk factors and getting regular screenings, women can have peace of mind knowing they are taking steps to protect their health. Additionally, women should talk to their healthcare provider about any symptoms they may be experiencing, such as abnormal vaginal bleeding or pelvic pain, as these can be indicative of cervical cancer.
Screening methods
When you see a gynecologist specialist in Dubai there will be most likely utilizing two of the most popular methods for screening for cervical cancer which are: the human papillomavirus (HPV) test and the pap smear.
The HPV test looks for the presence of the human papillomavirus, which is associated with cervical cancer. This virus is present in almost all cases of cervical cancer, and detecting it is an effective way to identify the disease in its early stages.
The pap smear, on the other hand, looks for changes in the cells of the cervix and can detect cancer before it has spread to other parts of the body. It is important to note that the two tests are complementary. Both can be administered to maximize the accuracy of cervical cancer screening.
These tests may also include a colposcopy, which involves a doctor looking at the cervix with a magnifying device to look for signs of cancer, or a biopsy, which involves taking a tissue sample from the cervix to be examined in a laboratory.
When to get screened for cervical cancer
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women worldwide, and early detection and treatment are essential for increasing the chances of survival. But when should women start screening?
The best gynecology doctors in Dubai will tell you the following. Those sexually active women should get their first pap smear at 21 years and another test every three years. They can continue testing with pap smears every three years until age 65 years or start with their HPV test every five years at age 30 years. When you turn 65, you should talk with a gynecologist specialist in Dubai to see how often to screen for cervical cancer according to your medical history.
Prevention and treatment of cervical cancer
Any gynecologist specialist in Dubai will tell you that prevention is the best treatment, and there are ways to reduce your risk of cervical cancer. Since the leading cause of cervical cancer is an infection with the human papillomavirus, a successful prevention method is using condoms, which protect your vaginal mucosa from direct contact infection. Eating a balanced diet and quitting smoking can also reduce the risk by improving your immune function and reducing inflammation.
On the other hand, treatment of cervical cancer may include chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and immunotherapy, depending on the cancer stage. Surgery is a common option for cancers in an early stage. It is often combined with radiation and other methods to increase its effectiveness. Chemotherapy and immunotherapy are used when cancer has spread or there is a chance it has already metastasized to other parts of the body.
Conclusion
Overall, early detection is key when it comes to the successful treatment of cervical cancer. Regular screening is the best way to detect pre-cancerous cells and catch the disease in its earliest stages. We have two main tools for that, the pap smear and the HPV test, which can improve your survival rate five years after the diagnosis from 59% to 92%.
If you or any loved one feels any of the syptoms mentioned, please do not hesitate to fill out our quick appointment form. Consult the best gynecology doctors in Dubai at German Medical Center in Dubai Healthcare City.
