Cervical cancer is increasingly common in the UK. Regular smear tests are vital in saving lives, but the numbers show that screening is at a low. The good news is that cervical cancer is preventable. Read on to find out some key facts and how to protect yourself.
What is it cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the lining of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus, beginning where the womb opens into the vagina. The base of the cervix is located an inch or two inside the vaginal canal and feels like a hard, fleshy lump.
There were 3,126 new cases of cervical cancer in the UK in 2015 – that’s around 9 new cases every day. You’re most at risk of cervical cancer from age 25-29.
Why do I need to know about it?
You may have heard of cervical cancer, but not everyone gets screened for it. Unfortunately, cervical cancer is on the rise, and it can be fatal.
The Stats
There has been a 5% increase in overall incidence rates of cervical cancer in the past ten years, but in the 20-24 age group, it has increased by a whopping 93%. 25-34-year-olds saw a 47% increase rate.
Once it has been diagnosed, the survival rate for cervical cancer over ten years is 63%.
Cervical cancer is a progressive disease, which means that 99.8% of all cases are preventable.
Yes, that’s right. With regular monitoring, cervical cancer is preventable.
How do I prevent cervical cancer?
You can assess your risk of cervical cancer, and keep tabs on any abnormal cell growth in the cervix, by having regular smear tests. Women are generally advised to have a smear test every three years, but your requirements as to when you start having them, and how frequently you have them, will depend on your individual case. If you have had an abnormal result, have a history of cervical cancer, or have a weakened immune system, the doctor may recommend that you have them more frequently.
Also remember that even if your smear tests are up to date, it is a good idea to have a check-up once a year for a pelvic exam, breast exam, STI screening, and general consultation.
What is a smear test?
A smear test is a diagnostic procedure during which a doctor collects cells from the cervix which are then sent to a laboratory to be examined under a microscope. A smear test is the main method of detecting cervical cancer. The idea is that the earlier you catch any malignancy (abnormal cell changes), the easier it is to treat it.
Does Cervical Cancer have symptoms?
In its earliest stages, cervical cancer may not cause any symptoms at all. While the presence of any of these symptoms calls for a visit to the doctor, a lack of symptoms is not a reason to skip your smear test.
When they do occur, symptoms of cervical cancer are:
- Unusual vaginal bleeding (between your menstrual periods, after sex, after a gynaecological exam, or after you have gone through menopause)
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Increased urination or painful urination
- Pelvic pain
What causes cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer is caused mainly by the HPV virus, which causes abnormalities in cervical cells. It is extremely common to have the HPV virus, however, and not all strains indicate a high risk for development of cervical cancer.
HPV is sexually transmitted, so using condoms during sex reduces your risks of increasing your HPV load.
Smoking is thought to be a contributing factor to cervical cancer, so this is another great reason to ditch your ciggies.
If you would like to discuss your suitability for the HPV vaccine, please give us a call. https://walkin-clinic.co.uk/gynaecology/hpv
