Cervical cancer is serious business, but the good news is that the disease can be prevented with some treatment. This month, which turns green, is focused on the prevention and awareness of neoplasms, the main cause of which is the human papillomavirus (HPV), responsible for about 99% of cases. HPV is transmitted sexually.
According to Larissa Gomes, oncologist at Oncoclínicas São Paulo, HPV infection is usually asymptomatic and self-limiting. “In most cases, up to the age of 30, women can resolve this infection. However, there is a possibility that the virus will evolve into the development of cervical cancer,” she explains.
About 75% of sexually active Brazilian women will come into contact with the virus in their lifetime. Around the age of 25, this is when transmission peaks, and after being infected, 5 percent of them will develop the malignancy between two and ten years old, according to the Ministry of Health.
According to estimates by the National Cancer Institute (INCA), approximately 17,010 women will be diagnosed with cervical cancer in Brazil in 2023, which represents a considered risk of 13.25 per 100,000 women. It is also worth mentioning that the disease is the third type of cancer that most affects the female public, so it is very important that the diagnosis is made as soon as possible for treatment to begin.
Below, the oncologist comments on 6 relevant pieces of information to stay on the radar:
Can the HPV vaccine prevent cervical cancer?
“Yes! Since 2014 it has been offered free of charge in Basic Health Units in Brazil for girls aged 9 to 14 and boys aged 11 to 14. Given this reality, HPV vaccination may not only prevent neck cancer uterus, but also cancer of the vulva, vagina and anus in women and cancer of the penis in men.Immunization must take place before exposure to the virus, i.e. before the onset of sexual life”.
Can young women get cervical cancer?
“In most cases, this type of cancer occurs after the age of 40, but it is important to reiterate that it can occur at any age. Therefore, it is essential that the Pap smear be performed from the age of 25 or when the woman begins to have sexual intercourse. Due to the low demand for vaccinations and routine gynecological examinations, it is possible to notice an increase in cases in young patients, demonstrating even more that prevention is essential from an early age”.
Can any woman infected with HPV get cervical cancer?
“No. Less than 10% of infected women will develop the disease, however, this is not a rule. In the case of patients with compromised immunity, i.e. transplant recipients, HIV carriers or even undergoing some treatment, the reproduction of the virus can occur more easily. Therefore, it is essential that HPV vaccination occurs as a way to prevent the disease.”
80% of cancer mortality can be reduced if discovered early
“Unfortunately, most women go undiagnosed while the cancer is in its early stages. Therefore, it is very important that routine examinations, such as papanicholas, are performed periodically. The symptoms cannot always be perceived, but if the patient notices something out of the ordinary, it is essential to seek help from a specialist”.
Can the first signs take some time to appear?
“In most cases, cervical cancer is asymptomatic, but it is possible to observe the onset of pain during intercourse, bleeding or even vaginal discharge with a different smell, amount or appearance than usual. When the disease is advanced, the patient may experience more severe pain in the pelvic region, urinary or bowel changes, unexplained weight loss or pain in the legs and back, or extreme tiredness related to blood loss (anaemia).
If a woman notices bleeding during menopause, you need to keep an eye out.
“The symptom may be related to cervical cancer, however, it is important to reiterate that it is not the only possible cause. There is a possibility that this sign is related to other situations, such as endometrial polyps, lesions of the cervix and vagina, etc. If the patient notices the presence of bleeding, it is essential to contact the gynecologist as soon as possible “.
