Cervical cancer is the fourth most common gynecological cancer in India. Almost all cases are caused by one of the strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). It affects the cells in the cervix, and can potentially spread to other parts of the body in advanced stages. The cancer spreads through skin-to-skin contact during sexual intercourse. Persistent HPV infection of the cervix can lead to precancerous lesions, which if left untreated can cause 95% of cervical cancers. However, early detection makes it treatable.
It can be prevented to a larger extent through HPV vaccination, which is ideally given to girls aged 9 to 14 years and can be taken up to 30 years of age, offering them vital protection. Later stages, the doses may increase, but are effective.
The symptoms may not be evident early on, but annual Pap smear tests are recommended for women after mid-30’s to detect pre-cancerous changes before the cancer develops.
If one notices any such changes, it is recommended to consult a gynec oncologist for an accurate diagnosis and obtain clarity on whether surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy is appropriate.
Some risk factors include:
Though these do not guarantee one getting detected with cancer, however, if one notices any symptoms, consult a gynecologist immediately.
As of 2025, there are eight licensed HPV vaccines, and they all protect against high-risk HPV strains (type 16 and 18), which account for 76% of cervical cancers.
