As indicated by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) in 2017, cervical cancer is the second most frequent cancer among women in Latin America and the Caribbean, and the fourth in the region of the Americas, causing the death of some 35,000 women each year and an estimated 83,000 women diagnosed annually. According to statistics from the Global Cancer Observatory (Globocan) in 2020, 872 women died as a result of cervical cancer in Guatemala.
Within the framework of the World Day for the Prevention of Cervical Cancer, it is important to remember that cervical cancer is one of the diseases that can be prevented through vaccination, which makes it necessary to raise awareness about this disease, which can be treated with low risks as long as its detection is timely and early.
Early diagnosis can save lives
Cervical cancer can often be prevented with regular screening tests to diagnose any lesions, as well as the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. The following tests and procedures may be used to screen for cervical cancer:
- HPV test: It is performed on a sample of cells taken from the woman’s cervix. This sample is tested for the HPV strains most commonly associated with cervical cancer. The HPV test can be done alone or combined with a Pap smear.
- Pap smear: The Pap smear is most often used to detect early cell changes that can lead to cervical cancer. This is also called Pap smear. For her, a sample of cells from the cervix must be obtained. It is often done at the same time as a bimanual pelvic exam as part of a gynecologic checkup.
Cervical cancer screening can be done during an appointment with a primary care doctor or gynecologist.
Vaccination as a prevention alternative
One way to prevent HPV is to get vaccinated. Vaccines protect against the types of HPV viruses that most often cause precancers and cancers of the cervix, vagina, vulva, and anus. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends vaccinating girls between the ages of 9 and 14.
“Cervical cancer may be preventable through early vaccination. In Guatemala, the vaccine is available in the Immunization Program for girls between the ages of 10 and 14 and is a fundamental tool to protect them from this and other HPV-associated diseases,” said Dr. Carmela Oranges, Executive Director of Medical Affairs for MSD
Consult your medical specialist and protect your children against the Human Papilloma Virus.
Fuente. MSD
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