Cervical Cancer

With the recent death of Jade Goody from cervical cancer, cervical cancer has experienced increased awareness and interest from the general public. This has led to anecdotal reports of more women visiting their doctors for a regular pap smear screening, as well as greater reporting of symptoms that may be associated with the development of cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer, a type of cancer that occurs in the cervix, also known as the “neck of the vagina”, need not be a killer. In fact, cervical cancer is one of the few types of cancers whose cause is known. Cervical cancer is caused by a particular strain of the HPV virus, a virus which is found in the majority of sexually active individuals. Because cervical cancer is an extremely slow-growing type of cancer, it can be detected in its early—and even precancerous—stage by visiting the doctor for a routine annual or biannual check-up. There is also a HPV vaccine that can be used to help protect young women from contracting the strains of HPV that are known to cause cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer is slow-growing, but it can be deadly, as the loss of Jade Goody has shown us. Jade’s case is a tragic indicator of why women need to pay heed of warning signs and symptoms and ensure that they report them to their doctor in order to rule out cervical cancer as a cause, or to see if further tests or treatment is needed.

Although the symptoms of cervical cancer are generally non-specific, there are certain signs that point to the presence of cervical cancer, and these should not be taken lightly. Some of the indicators of the beginnings of cervical cancer include abnormal pap smear results, while indicators of more advanced forms of cervical cancer include unusual bleeding or pain in the vaginal or pelvic area, unusual discharge, bloating and discomfort, anaemia and lethargy.

Although cervical cancer is not an aggressive type of cancer, it is best treated when caught in its early or precancerous stages. Catching cervical cancer early not only offers a better chance of recovery, but it also means that the patient is less likely to have to undergo complex and uncomfortable treatment such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy or a complete or radical hysterectomy.

This website aims to provide valuable information about cervical cancer. For more information about gynaecological cancers, visit ovariancancer.org.uk; helpful information can also be found on  cancerinformation.co.uk.