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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.

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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.

Prevention
Symptoms
Risk Factors
Screening

What are the screening methods?

Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) or Lugols Iodine (VILI)

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Cervix is observed 1 minute after applying 3-5% acetic acid

What are some treatment options?

Cryotherapy

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Cryotherapy is used to freeze and remove abnormal pre-cancerous cells from the cervix. The doctor or nurse inserts a speculum to open your vagina, then gently holds a cryoprobe inside for a few minutes.

Treatment
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