What are the rates and frequency of cervical cancer?
Its frequency has dramatically decreased over the years following the introduction of cervical screening programmes with cervical smears (Pap tests) and routine gynaecological examinations. Women should begin having regular Pap tests immediately after becoming sexually active.
Cervical cancer is less likely in women over the age of 65 whose most recent Pap tests have been negative.
What is it and how does it develop?
Cervical cancer develops when the normal cells of the cervix transform into cancer cells. This does not happen overnight. The development of cancer takes place over several years. However, this does not mean that one should become complacent, as in some cases cancer can develop over a much shorter period of time. Cervical cancer usually appears in middle age. Half of the women who are diagnosed with cervical cancer are between 35 and 55 years old.
What are the main symptoms?
If cancer is diagnosed early, there is an almost 100% chance of five-year survival. Women with early-stage cancer typically have no symptoms. Symptoms appear only when the cancer has advanced significantly. These symptoms include: unusual vaginal discharge, abnormal bleeding outside the normal menstrual period, and bleeding or pain during sexual intercourse. These symptoms are not unique to cervical cancer; they may also occur in other benign (non-cancerous) conditions. However, if you experience such symptoms, consult your doctor immediately.
What additional tests are required?
Additional examinations that may be needed as part of the investigation include: cystoscopy (examination of the bladder with an endoscope), rectoscopy (examination of the rectum with an endoscope), chest X-ray, and other imaging tests such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
What is the treatment process?
These tests are used to assess the spread of the cancer to nearby or distant organs and will determine the exact treatment required — surgical treatment, radiotherapy, or a combination of both.
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