Cervical cancer is one of the most common types of cancer that affects women, especially in developing countries like India. However, there are many myths and misconceptions about this disease that prevent people from taking preventive measures and seeking timely treatment.
1. Myth: Cervical cancer is hereditary.
Fact: While some cases are genetic, most cases of cervical cancer are caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV)infection, a sexually transmitted infection.
2. Myth: Cervical cancer only affects older women.
Fact: While the risk increases with age, cervical cancer can affect women of any age. HPV infections can lead to cervical abnormalities that, if left untreated, might develop into cancer later in life.
3. Myth: Only sexually active women are at risk.
Fact: While sexual activity increases the risk due to potential HPV exposure, it's not the only risk factor. There are certain other risk factors for cervix cancer which includes old age, smoking, unhygienic menstrual practices, low immunity conditions.
4. Myth: HPV vaccines are only for young women.
Fact: HPV vaccines are recommended for girls starting at ages 9-14 and anther useful age group is 15-16 years. Some advice upto 40 years with less benefits
5. Myth: Pap smears prevent cervical cancer.
Fact: Pap smears are screening tests that can detect precancerous changes, allowing for early intervention and treatment. They don't directly prevent cervical cancer but are crucial in its early detection.
6. Myth: An annual Pap test is mandatory.
Fact: The current guidelines recommend: -
- Ages 21-29: Pap test once every three years
- Ages 30-64: Pap test once every three years, or Pap with HPV test once every five years-
- Ages 65 and older: Ask your doctor if you need to continue screening or not
7. Myth: No screening is required for me as I have no symptoms.
Fact: Cervical cancer usually does not cause any symptoms until it reaches an advanced stage. By then, it may be too late to treat it effectively. That is why screening is so important, as it can detect abnormal cells in the cervix before they become cancerous.
8. Myth: If I have HPV, I will get cervical cancer for sure.
Fact: Most HPV infections go away on their own without causing any problems. Only a small percentage of people will develop cervical cancer. However, there is no way to predict that get screened regularly.
9. Myth: I can't become a mom now as I've had cervical cancer.
Fact: Depending on the stage and extent of your cancer, you may have different treatment options that can preserve your fertility. Some early-stage cancers can be treated with surgery that removes only part of the cervix (trachelectomy), leaving the ovaries intact. Some advanced-stage cancers can be treated with chemotherapy and radiation therapy and ovaries can be shifted up in abdomen. In some cases, you may also consider freezing your eggs or embryos before treatment or using donor eggs or surrogacy after treatment. Discuss your fertility goals and options with your doctor before starting any treatment.
10. Myth: Cervical cancer is untreatable.
Fact: When detected early, cervical cancer is highly treatable. In early stage main treatment options is surgery and in some cases radiation along with chemotherapy. Survival rates increase significantly with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
For more information on Cervical Cancer: www.cancersurgery.online Cervix Cancer - CancerSurgery