This article will discuss cervix cancer, its causes, risk factors and preventive measures for the condition.
Glancing back at the last few decades, one can undeniably affirm the significant rise in cancer-related issues. Causing almost 4% deaths per year, cancer cases have made living fatal. Now, cancer can be of different types based on the organ or body part it majorly affects. It is caused by to abnormal growth of cells which proliferate over time. Some of the most common types of cancers include lung cancer, prostate cancer, and others. Cervical cancer, cancer developed in the cervix region, affects 1.7% of the population every year.
The cervix, the lower narrow end of the womb, is a delicate organ serving vital functions in the female body. It not only protects the fetus during pregnancy but also facilitates mensuration and other processes. In addition to that, it supports childbirth and allows sperm to travel into the uterus.
Symptoms of Cervix Cance
Once developed, cervical cancer may remain discreet. However, one can notice some of these prominent signs. These are enlisted below as follows:
- Untimely vaginal bleeding, especially during sexual intercourse.
- Excessive vaginal discharge with a foul odour.
- Heavy and continuous bleeding during menstruation, may also cause immense pain and cramps.
- Unresolvable pain in the vagina.
- Bleeding after performing pelvic-related exercises.
- Transparent and watery vaginal discharge, more than usual.
- Pain in thighs and legs.
- Sudden weight loss and unexplainable tiredness.
- Blood in cough mucus.
- Urination problems and vaginal discomfort.
- Frequent bowel movements.
Causes of Cervix Cance
- Change in Cells: It is caused when there is an abnormal growth, like a lesion or tumour, around the cervix region due to changes in the DNA of cells in the cervix.
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV): When an individual gets infected with HPV, it leads to a tumor-like ingrowth. HPV is commonly transferred during sexual intercourse and may also occur due to unhygienic and irresponsible sharing of sexual toys, vaginal or anal sex, and having multiple sexual partners.
Risk factors of Cervix Cance
Several risk factors may lead to HPV infection, which can turn into cervical cancer. However, if managed meticulously on time, one can prevent risk.
Some of these factors are elucidated below as follows:
Unhealthy Sexual History
Being sexually involved with multiple partners, sharing sex toys, having untimely sex and other unhygienic sex practices are some of the most primitive factors that may significantly increase the chances of HPV infection.
Family History
Sometimes, cervix cancer may be genetic and may pass from an individual to their offspring. Individuals with a genetic history of cervix cancer may be more prone to developing it.
Smoking
Frequent smokers are observed to be affected more easily than non-smokers. The HPV infection tends to stay for longer in smokers and may also weaken the immune system further.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
STIs including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, herpes, and syphilis may also make an individual more vulnerable to developing cervix cancer later in life.
Lifestyle
Individuals with an unhealthy lifestyle and poor diet may have a vulnerable or weak immune system, which puts it at more risk. A well-balanced and rich diet is an absolute must.
Obesity
People who are overweight are at high risk of cervix cancer. Thus, one should maintain a healthy BMI.
Preventive Measures of Cervix Cance
An individual can follow certain preventive measures to remain healthy and avoid the development of cervix cancer. Some of these preventive measures are enlisted below as follows:
- You may receive an HPV vaccine to reduce your chances of this fatal disease.
- Avoid smoking and tobacco. This can also make your immune system stronger and less habitable for the HPV virus.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Receive sunlight every day. Have proper (small and frequent) meals.
- Move your body. Practice exercises as advised by your physician.
- Practice safe sex. Avoid having sex at an early age as it increases the risk.
- Avoid having multiple sex partners.
- Don’t share your sex toys and intimate accessories.
- Consume a diet rich in antioxidants. Make sure to include organic and fresh fruits in your diet.
