City-based doctors have stated that early vaccination can help prevent cervical cancer. According to World Health Organisation (WHO), cervical cancer is the fourth leading cause of death due to cancer in women worldwide and India accounts for a third of the deaths globally. This means that almost two women die every 15 minutes in the country due to the disease. Cervical cancer affects the opening of the uterus and can be treated effectively if detected early.
Dr Bhavana Mangal, senior consultant - obstetrics and gynaecology, Columbia Asia Hospital, Pune, said, “Despite the best medical facilities available in the state, people tend to overlook the symptoms of cervical cancer, which is a a cause for concern. As sexual intercourse is considered as an important factor that can spread cervical cancer, there is a considerable stigma attached with it. It is good to have a vaccination against cervical cancer as early as possible. The prevalence of cervical cancer can be significantly reduced if girls entering teenage are vaccinated early. The vaccine works better on children and yields effective results. When an adult gets vaccinated, it needs to be done through multiple shots, while a child can be immunised with just two shots.”
Speaking about the symptoms, Dr Mangal said, “There is an increase in vaginal discharge or sudden loss of weight. The chronic back pain despite a healthy lifestyle is also one of the indicators. If there is inconsistency in the menstrual cycles or bloody stools, patients should immediately consult a doctor. There are high chances of curing the disease if it is diagnosed early. However, vaccination remains the best way to stop the disease from affecting a person. Even though the vaccines are deemed as expensive by many, subsidies from the government can help decrease the incidence of the disease.”
{{/usCountry}}Speaking about the symptoms, Dr Mangal said, “There is an increase in vaginal discharge or sudden loss of weight. The chronic back pain despite a healthy lifestyle is also one of the indicators. If there is inconsistency in the menstrual cycles or bloody stools, patients should immediately consult a doctor. There are high chances of curing the disease if it is diagnosed early. However, vaccination remains the best way to stop the disease from affecting a person. Even though the vaccines are deemed as expensive by many, subsidies from the government can help decrease the incidence of the disease.”
{{/usCountry}}Dr Rajendra Badwe, director of Tata Memorial Centre, had stated that 15 per cent of cancers are caused by infections including that of cervix, stomach and penis. He emphasised that cervical cancer can be reduced by improving personal hygiene, changing reproductive pattern, use of intrauterine devices, safer sexual practices and better nutrition.