MYTHS vs FACTS :
Myths and Facts about Cervical Cancer Screening in India
Myth: Monogamous relationships prevent HPV infection.
Fact: HPV can be transmitted through other means, including poor vaginal hygiene and childbirth. Every woman, regardless of her relationship status, should undergo regular screening.
Myth: Only women with symptoms need screening.
Fact: Cervical cancer often shows no symptoms until it’s advanced. Regular screening is crucial for early detection.
Myth: Cervical cancer is not common in India.
Fact: Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers among Indian women. Regular screening can significantly reduce the incidence and mortality rates.
FAQs
1. What is cervical cancer screening?
Cervical cancer screening involves tests that detect abnormal cells in the cervix that could develop into cancer. The primary screening methods are the Pap smear (Pap test) and the High-Risk Human Papillomavirus (HR HPV) DNA test.
2. How does cervical cancer occur?
Cervical cancer begins with abnormal changes in the cervical cells. Over time, these changes can progress from pre-cancerous lesions to invasive cancer. Early detection and treatment of these abnormal cells can prevent cervical cancer from developing.
3. What causes cervical cancer?
Most cases of cervical cancer are caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of Human Papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection that can lead to cellular changes in the cervix.
4. Does HPV always lead to cervical cancer?
No, HPV does not always lead to cervical cancer. While high-risk types of HPV can cause cervical changes, the body’s immune system often clears the infection on its own. However, persistent HPV infections can increase the risk of developing cervical cancer.
5. Why is cervical cancer screening important?
Cervical cancer screening is crucial because it detects pre-cancerous changes early, allowing for timely treatment. Early intervention significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and can prevent the development of cervical cancer.
6. How is cervical cancer screening done?
Cervical cancer screening is done using:
- Pap smear: A sample of cells is collected from the cervix and examined under a microscope to detect abnormalities.
- HR HPV-DNA test: This test detects the presence of high-risk HPV types by examining the DNA of the virus in cervical cells.
7. How often should I have cervical cancer screening and which tests should I have?
- Women aged 21-29: Pap smear every 3 years.
- Women aged 30 and older: Pap smear and HR HPV-DNA co-testing every 5 years, or Pap smear alone every 3 years.
8. When should I stop having cervical cancer screening?
Women can stop cervical cancer screening at age 65 if they have had regular screenings with normal results over the past 10 years. Women with a history of serious pre-cancer should continue screening for at least 20 years after diagnosis.
9. If I have had a hysterectomy, do I still need cervical cancer screening?
If you had a total hysterectomy (removal of the uterus and cervix) for reasons not related to cancer or pre-cancer, you may not need further screening. However, if the cervix was not removed or if the surgery was for cervical cancer or pre-cancer, continue screening as recommended by your doctor.
10. How else can I protect myself from cervical cancer?
In addition to regular screening, getting the HPV vaccine can protect against the types of HPV that most often cause cervical cancer. Practicing safe sex and not smoking can also reduce your risk.
11. Are there women who may need more frequent screening?
Yes, women at higher risk, such as those with HIV, weakened immune systems, a history of cervical cancer, or those who were exposed to diethylstilbestrol (DES) in utero, may need more frequent screening.
12. Why is cervical cancer screening not recommended before age 21?
Screening is not recommended before age 21 because cervical cancer is rare in this age group, and the immune system of younger women typically clears HPV infections on its own.
13. Why is yearly screening not recommended?
Yearly screening is not recommended because it has not been shown to provide additional benefits compared to screening every 3 to 5 years. Over-screening can lead to unnecessary procedures and anxiety.
14. Why is cervical cancer screening recommended even if I am not having sex?
HPV can persist for years after the initial infection, and cervical cancer can develop long after exposure. Regular screening is important for all women, regardless of current sexual activity.
15. Why is co-testing (Pap test plus HPV test) not recommended for women who are 21 to 29?
Co-testing is not recommended for women aged 21 to 29 because HPV infections are common and usually clear on their own in this age group. Pap smears alone are sufficient to detect any cellular changes that could lead to cervical cancer.
16. Are these guidelines likely to change again?
Cervical cancer screening guidelines are periodically reviewed and updated based on new research and evidence. It is important to stay informed about current recommendations.
17. Do I still need to see my ob-gyn every year if yearly cervical cancer screening is no longer recommended?
Yes, annual visits to your ob-gyn are important for overall reproductive health, including breast exams, discussions about contraception, and other preventive care.
18. What does it mean if I have an abnormal cervical cancer screening test result?
An abnormal result means that changes in the cervical cells have been detected. This does not necessarily mean cancer, but further testing is needed to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
19. How accurate are cervical cancer screening test results?
Cervical cancer screening tests are highly accurate, but no test is perfect. False positives and false negatives can occur. Regular screening and follow-up tests help ensure that any abnormalities are detected and treated early.
Conclusion:
Cervical cancer screening is a vital component of women’s health care. Early detection through methods like the Pap smear and HR HPV-DNA test can save lives by identifying pre-cancerous changes before they develop into cancer. Women should start screening at age 25 and continue regularly, with adjustments based on age and risk factors. Read our Blog on various tests available https://wellnxt.in/wp-admin/post.php?post=2468&action=edit
Breaking myths and increasing awareness about the importance of screening can help more women take proactive steps toward maintaining their health. Talk to your healthcare provider today about cervical cancer screening and take charge of your well-being. Book Our gynaecologists consultation to know more.https://wellnxt.mymedic.in/doctors/dr–surbhi-sinha-
