Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the cervix, a female reproductive organ, and spreads to other parts of the body. According to a report released by the American Cancer Society, more than 13,000 new cases of invasive cervical cancer are detected each year. It is estimated that nearly 0.6% of women in the country will be diagnosed with cervical cancer at some stage in their lifetime. Currently, more than 250,000 women in the country suffer from the disease.

The disease is usually diagnosed in middle age, but since it is a slow-growing cancer, the early stages usually start in the 20s and 30s.

Research has found a clear and strong association between human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and cervical cancer. Here is some information to help you better understand this disease.

How is cervical cancer diagnosed?

• Cervical cancer usually progresses very slowly. Many women do not experience obvious symptoms, but some women may experience warning signs in the later stages. Abnormal vaginal bleeding and discharge are common symptoms of cervical cancer.
• A colposcopy is performed to check for abnormal cells.
• The Pap test is used to detect cervical cancer. The test is named after its discoverer, George Papanicolaou.
• For high-risk women, regular Pap smears are recommended after the age of 30. If the Pap test shows abnormal cells, a biopsy must be performed. This involves removing a small portion of the cervix and testing it for cancer cells.
• Ultrasound scans cannot detect precancerous cell changes.
• HPV DNA testing is an option for women aged 30 and above, as there is a clear link between HPV infection and cervical cancer.

What are the different stages of cervical cancer?

• If the biopsy report detects cervical cancer, further testing is required to determine the stage of the cancer (stages 1-4).
• In stage 1, the cancer is confined to the cervical area. In stage 2, the cancer spreads from the cervix to the upper part of the vagina. In stage 3, the cancer metastasizes to the pelvic area and lower part of the vagina. In stage 4 (the final stage), the cancer spreads to the rectum, bladder, and other parts of the body such as the lungs, liver, brain, etc.
• It is important to determine the stage of cancer because treatments vary depending on the stage.
• Determining the stage helps doctors and patients make a reasonable prognosis.

Can HPV infection that causes cervical cancer be treated?

• HPV infection is directly related to the prevalence of cervical cancer.
• Early detection of this infection helps prevent progression to cancer.
• Lesions caused by persistent HPV virus can be treated with cold knife, cautery, etc.
• Treatment options for cervical cancer depend on the stage of cancer diagnosed.
• Radical hysterectomy is the most common treatment for early stages of cancer.
• Radiation therapy and chemotherapy are alternatives to surgery.
• Very early cancer can be treated with conization or simple hysterectomy (removal of only the cervix and uterus).
• Treatment is performed by gynecologists, gynecologic oncologists, and medical and radiation oncologists.
• In order to effectively treat cancer, a multidisciplinary approach involving nurses, social workers, psychologists, rehabilitation specialists, etc. is required.

How to choose the right treatment?

• The doctor discusses the available treatment options with the patient based on the diagnosis report.
• The patient's age, health status and preferences, as well as the doctor's experience, knowledge, and expertise determine the treatment method.
• The diagnosis and treatment of cervical cancer affects a patient's current and future ability to maintain a sexual life and/or have children. Therefore, a second opinion is essential.
• It is important to fully understand treatment options, but not to become obsessed with them or try to control them.
• Doctors provide comprehensive information about the side effects and risks of various treatment options.
• Participating in clinical trials provides access to the latest treatments.
• Complementary and alternative treatment options are not usually recommended by doctors.
• However, they can help relieve symptoms, reduce pain, and provide peace of mind.
• Palliative care is essential in the final stages of cancer.

What treatment and postoperative care options are available?

• Treatment is not the end of the cervical cancer treatment process. Cervical cancer recurrence is a possibility that should not be taken lightly or ignored.
• The patient's medical team must continue to monitor for recurring signs and symptoms.
• Supportive care is also essential to manage the side effects of chemotherapy.
• New, targeted, advanced chemotherapy options should be explored.
• Biological therapies stimulate the body's immune system to destroy cancer cells.
• It is essential to have a comprehensive physical exam every 3-4 months for the first two years and 4-6 times every six months thereafter.
• Pap smears must be performed annually.