A research study by the department of genetics at Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU) has highlighted the importance of human papillomavirus (HPV) screening and early detection in preventing and managing cervical cancer, with high-risk HPV types 16 and 18 detected in a majority of the patients studied.
The study was conducted by research scholar Shalu under the supervision of professor Ritu Yadav of the department of genetics, MDU, with professor Meenakshi Chauhan of the department of obstetrics and gynaecology, PGIMS, Rohtak, serving as co-supervisor.
The researchers examined factors associated with cervical cancer and found links with age at first childbirth, number of births, miscarriages and lifestyle-related factors. The findings underline the need for greater awareness and timely screening, particularly among women who may be at higher risk.
The study also examined molecular changes in long non-coding RNAs, identifying certain genetic and epigenetic alterations that could potentially serve as biomarkers for early diagnosis and prognosis.
According to the researchers, such findings could contribute to the development of more personalised approaches to treatment and open avenues for newer therapeutic strategies.