Cervical Cancer Specialists in Maharashtra
Cervical Cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina, and is strongly linked …
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What is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical Cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina, and is strongly linked to persistent infection with certain high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (HPV). It typically develops slowly over many years, progressing through precancerous changes that can be detected and treated before becoming invasive cancer. Regular screening through Pap smears and HPV testing has dramatically reduced cervical cancer deaths in countries with organized screening programs. It remains a significant cause of cancer death in regions with limited screening access.
Severe
Common — a leading cause of cancer death among women in regions with limited screening
No
Causes of Cervical Cancer
Caused predominantly by persistent infection with high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted virus that can cause abnormal cell changes in the cervix over time. Additional risk factors include smoking, a weakened immune system, long-term use of oral contraceptives, multiple sexual partners, and early onset of sexual activity.
Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
Abnormal vaginal bleeding between periods or after menopause, bleeding after intercourse, unusual vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, leg swelling in advanced disease, unexplained weight loss
Treatment & Types of Cervical Cancer in Maharashtra
Precancerous lesions can be treated with minor procedures to remove abnormal cells, while invasive cancer is treated with surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy depending on stage. Advanced disease may also be treated with targeted therapy or immunotherapy, and treatment plans are individualized based on the extent of spread.
Cervical cancer is classified by stage, from stage 0 (precancerous changes confined to the cervix's surface layer) through stage IV (spread to distant organs), and by cell type as squamous cell carcinoma (the majority of cases, arising from the outer cervix) or adenocarcinoma (arising from the glandular cells, less common but increasingly recognized).
Medical Oncology Specialists in Maharashtra (1)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can cervical cancer be prevented?
Yes, it's one of the most preventable cancers through HPV vaccination before or during early sexual activity combined with regular Pap smear and HPV screening.
Does HPV infection always lead to cervical cancer?
No, most HPV infections clear on their own; cervical cancer develops only when high-risk strains persist for years and cause progressive precancerous changes that go undetected and untreated.
How often should I get screened?
Screening intervals depend on age and prior results, but regular Pap smears and/or HPV testing starting from the recommended age is key to catching changes early.
Can precancerous changes be treated before they become cancer?
Yes, abnormal cells detected on screening can often be removed with minor procedures, preventing progression to invasive cancer entirely.
Is the HPV vaccine effective if I'm already sexually active?
It can still offer protection against HPV strains you haven't yet been exposed to, so it's worth discussing with your doctor regardless of your sexual history.