cervical cancer
What is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer is an abnormal growth of cells in the lining of the cervix that results from long-term infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a common virus that can be passed between partners during sex.
How many women have cervical cancer?
In Eastern Africa, cervical cancer is the most common cancer among women. In Kenya, 11% of new cancer cases are cervical cancer cases. However, it is a preventable disease.
What are the risk factors?
-
Early initiation of sexual intercourse
-
Having multiple sexual partners
-
Having a sexual partner with multiple sexual partners
-
Co-infection with other sexually transmitted infections, such as Chlamydia trachomatis and herpes simplex virus type 2
-
Multiparity
-
Immunosuppression due to HIV/AIDS infection
-
Tobacco use
How can I prevent getting cervical cancer?
Protects against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) which can cause cervical cancer
HPV vaccines are available for girls starting at age 9!
HPV Vaccination
Screening helps to find abnormal cervical cells that can become cancerous
Get regular screening!
What are the symptoms?
-
Abnormal vaginal bleeding
-
Abnormal vaginal discharge
-
Pain during sex
-
Pelvic pain
-
Blood in urine
-
Swelling of legs
-
Trouble urinating
Consult a healthcare professional immediately if you have any of these symptoms.
What are the screening methods?
What are some treatment options?
Sources:
National Cancer Screening Guidelines
https://www.health.go.ke/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/National-Cancer-Screening-Guidelines-2018.pdf
Kenya National Cancer Treatment Protocols 2019:
https://www.health.go.ke/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/National-treatment-Protocols-2019.pdf
Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi
World Health Organization
https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/searo/tobacco/trainees-handbook.pdf?sfvrsn=6778145d_2
Globocan 2018
https://gco.iarc.fr/today/data/factsheets/populations/404-kenya-fact-sheets.pdf
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cervical-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-symptoms.html
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/cancer/cervical-cancer/what-cryotherapy
https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/clinical-trials/search/v?id=NCI-2019-06774&r=1
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cervical-cancer/treating/radiation.html