Cervical cancer is caused by infection with the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), which often has no symptoms at an early stage. Usually, new complaints appear when the cancer has reached stage 2 or more.
The symptoms that are often felt, even though they are not the main criterion for cervical cancer, include frequent vaginal discharge even though they have been treated to post-coital bleeding. However, warts that appear on the genitals or other parts of the body are the only visible signs.
How is it transmitted?
according to dr. Andry, Sp. O. G, FMIGS, FEGRF from Pondok Indah Hospital, HPV can be transmitted through sexual activity, especially free sex due to frequent changes of partners. Not only that, the risk of transmission can increase if a woman has smoking habits, has a compromised immune system, and is infected with HIV/AIDS or other venereal diseases.
“Including slow-growing diseases, cervical cancer has a long phase or a long time from the infection stage to becoming cancer. In fact, there are more than 100 sub-types of HPV that are classified as low-risk HPV, which do not cause cancer, and high-risk HPV. risk of HPV, which can cause cancer,” said dr. Andry.
Meanwhile, around 30-40 sub-types of HPV can cause infection in the genital area. This can cause genital warts in men and women, cervical cancer in women, and penile cancer in men. In addition, various other types of HPV can cause infection of the hands, fingers and face.
Actually, this viral infection does not have specific anti-viral treatment so that it can heal by itself according to the body’s immunity. However, the possibility of an infection that persists or requires medical treatment is greater for women aged 30 years and over.
So, what is the prevention like?
Given that the initial infection with HPV does not show any symptoms, prevention is a very important step to take. This prevention is done through the HPV vaccine by giving antigens into the body to form antibodies or immunity from HPV infection. In addition, vaccination can prevent infection from developing into invasive cervical cancer.
Keep in mind, first consult your condition with a doctor before vaccinating in order to get the right treatment and dosage.
Jessica Grace Siregar
(FIR)
