Cervical Cancer Prevention Week is a time to come together, raise awareness, and act against a highly preventable form of cancer. By understanding the risks, recognising the symptoms, and encouraging early detection through regular screeing, we can empower women and individuals with a cervix to take charge of their health.
Understanding cervical cancer
What is a cervix?
The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina, serving as a vital component of the female reproductive system. It plays a crucial role in menstruation, pregnancy, and childbirth.
What is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer is a cancer that is found anywhere in the cervix. It's most common in women aged between 25-49 but it can affect people at any age. The good news is that it is preventable and treatable if caught early. However, cervical cancer is the 19th most common cancer death in women in the UK and between 2017 and 2019, there was around 850 cervical cancer deaths in the UK each year - that's over 2 lives every day.
Key symptoms of cervical cancer
Symptoms of cervical cancer include:
- Unusual vaginal bleeding - including bleeding during or after intercourse, between your periods, after menopause, or having heavier periods than usual.
- Changes to your vaginal discharge.
- Pain during intercourse.
- Pain in your lower back, between your hip bones, or in your lower tummy.
These symptoms are very common and can be caused by many different factors, but it is always best to check with your GP if you have any concerns.
The link between HPV and cervical cancer
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is responsible for almost all cases of cervical cancer. Most people will encounter HPV at some point, and it often clears up on its own without any complications. However, if you have a high-risk type of HPV that lingers in your body, it can increase your chances of developing cervical cancer.
The power of early detection
Detecting cervical cancer early can make all the difference. Early detection leads to higher treatment success rates, less invasive treatments, and overall, a better quality of life.
How is it detected?
Cervical cancer is typically detected through routine cervical screenings, where a small sample of cells is taken from the cervix and tested for abnormalities or the presence of high-risk HPV types.
If any irregularities are found, further tests such as a colposcopy or biopsy may be conducted to confirm a diagnosis.
Steps you can take to protect yourself
Whilst unfortunately there is no way to completely prevent cervical cancer, there are different ways you can lower your risk.
Cervical screening
One of the best ways to protect yourself from cervical cancer is through cervical screening - a screening that checks the health of your cervix and helps find any abnormal changes before they can turn into cancer. It's not a test for cancer; it's a test to prevent cancer.
All women and individuals with a cervix between the ages of 25 and 64 will be invited to attend regular cervical screenings. You may receive your first invitation up to six months before your 25th birthday.
The reccomended screening intervals are:
- If you are aged 25 to 49: Once every 3 years if no abnormal cells are detected.
- If you are aged 50 to 64: Once every 5 years, as the risk of abnormalities decreases with age.
Cervical screening plays a vital role in preventing cervical cancer by detecting abnormal cells early. If any abnormal cells are identified, they can be treated promptly to prevent them from developing into cancer.
HPV vaccine
The HPV vaccine is offered on the NHS and is recommended for children aged 12 to 13 years old and people who are at higher risk from HPV. The vaccine reduces your chance of contracting HPV, therefore reducing the chance of any HPV related complications, including cervical cancer.
Lifestyle changes
There are also certain lifestyle changes you can implement to decrease your risk of cervical cancer diagnosis, such as:
- Quitting smoking
- Always practicing safe sex
- Exercising regularly
- Having a healthy and balanced diet
How you can help this Cervical Cancer Prevention Week
It is important to take action and contribute towards raising awareness this Cervical Cancer Prevention Week. Here's some simple and easy ways you can help.
- Spread awareness: Share information about cervical cancer on social media, among friends, or in community groups. Use hashtags like #CervicalCancerAwarenessWeek to reach a wider audience.
- Encourage screening: If you know someone who is due a cervical screening, remind them of its importance and encourage them to book the appointment.
- Support organisations: Donate or volunteer with organisations dedicated to cervical cancer research, prevention, and support for those affected.
- Educate yourself and others: Learn more about cervical cancer, its symptoms, and preventative measures. Be sure to share your knowledge with others.
Together, we can make a difference
Cervical Cancer Prevention Week is the perfect opportunity to shed light on this preventable disease. By taking steps to educate yourself, prioritise your health, and support others, you can make a meaningful impact in the fight against cervical cancer.
Together, we can empower women to take charge of their health and reduce the burden of cervical cancer in our communities.
Disclaimer: The content of this website is provided for informational purposes only and does not substitute medical advice from a healthcare professional.