Cervical Cancer: What Every Woman Needs to Know
- Christiane Dash
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers affecting women, yet it remains a significant global health concern. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide, with hundreds of thousands of new cases and deaths each year. The encouraging reality is that most cervical cancer cases can be prevented through HPV vaccination and regular screening, and the disease is highly curable when detected early. January, Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, is an important time to raise awareness, encourage screening, and empower women with information that can save lives.
What Is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer develops in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Nearly all cases of cervical cancer are caused by persistent infection with Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
HPV is a prevalent sexually transmitted infection. Most sexually active people will be infected at some point, often without symptoms. In most cases, the body clears the virus naturally. However, when high-risk HPV types persist over time, they can cause abnormal cervical cells that may gradually progress to cancer.
Why Cervical Cancer Awareness Matters
WHO highlights that cervical cancer disproportionately affects women in low- and middle-income countries, largely due to limited access to HPV vaccination, cervical screening, and timely treatment. These disparities mean that a largely preventable disease continues to claim lives unnecessarily.
Cervical cancer also tends to affect younger women, making early detection especially important for families and communities.
Cervical Cancer and HIV
Women living with HIV are at a significantly higher risk of developing cervical cancer. A weakened immune system makes it harder to clear HPV infections, allowing abnormal cells to progress more rapidly. For this reason, women living with HIV are advised to begin cervical screening earlier and screen more frequently.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
Early-stage cervical cancer often has no symptoms, which is why regular screening is essential. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include:
Bleeding between periods, after sexual intercourse, or after menopause
Unusual, persistent, or foul-smelling vaginal discharge
Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse
Persistent back, leg, or pelvic pain
Fatigue or unexplained weight loss
Any of these symptoms should be checked by a healthcare professional.
How Cervical Cancer Can Be Prevented
HPV Vaccination
HPV vaccination is one of the most effective tools for preventing cervical cancer.
Recommended for girls aged 9–14 years, ideally before sexual activity begins
WHO-approved vaccines protect against HPV types 16 and 18, which cause the majority of cervical cancers
Individuals with weakened immune systems, including those living with HIV, may need additional doses
Some countries also vaccinate boys to reduce the spread of HPV and protect against other HPV-related cancers.
Regular Cervical Screening
Cervical screening can detect precancerous changes before cancer develops.
Screening is recommended from the age of 30
Women living with HIV should begin screening at age 25
Screening is needed even if you have received the HPV vaccine
Precancerous changes rarely cause symptoms, making routine screening one of the most important preventive steps.
Early Detection Saves Lives
When cervical cancer is detected early, treatment is highly effective and can be life-saving. Early care may involve simple procedures to remove abnormal cells, while more advanced cases may require surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy. The earlier cervical cancer is found, the better the outcomes.
A Global Goal: Eliminating Cervical Cancer
WHO has set a global goal to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem within this century. This effort focuses on improving HPV vaccination coverage, increasing access to screening, and ensuring timely treatment for all women regardless of where they live.
Take Action This Cervical Cancer Awareness Month
January is the perfect time to prioritize your cervical health. Whether it’s learning about HPV, getting vaccinated, or scheduling a cervical screening, small actions can make a life-saving difference.
Cervical cancer is largely preventable. Awareness, early detection, and timely care remain our strongest tools.
Comments