Cervical cancer is the third most common type of cancer among Indonesians. However, this cancer can be prevented with the HPV vaccine starting at the age of 12. Also known as cervical cancer, it can be cured or go into remission if treatment begins at an early stage.
What is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer is the growth of uncontrollable abnormal cells that form a tumor on the cervix or neck of the uterus. The cervix is the area that connects the vagina to the uterus.
Causes
Almost 99% of cervical cancer cases are caused by HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection. This is a very common type of virus that is often transmitted through sexual intercourse.
It is estimated that 8 out of 10 women may be infected with HPV in their lifetime, but most do not develop cervical cancer.
Most HPV infections do not cause symptoms and clear up on their own. However, in a small percentage of people, certain types of HPV can persist for years. It is this long-term HPV infection that can trigger cervical cancer in women.
In addition to HPV infection, your risk of this disease may also increase if you:
- Are infected with HPV and use birth control pills for five years or more.
- Are an active or passive smoker.
- Have a weakened immune system.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of cervical cancer include:
- Vaginal bleeding outside of menstruation
- Unusual discharge, such as increased volume, a foul odor, or a different color than usual.
- Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse
- Pelvic pain
- Longer or heavier menstruation than usual
- Bleeding after menopause
In the early stages of development, cervical cancer may not cause any specific signs and symptoms. In fact, not everyone diagnosed will experience symptoms until the cancer reaches advanced stages.
Diagnosis
To detect the presence of cervical cancer, doctors may perform several tests, such as:
1. Pap Smear
A Pap smear is performed by taking a sample of cervical tissue to be examined in a laboratory for the presence of abnormal cells.
In addition to detecting cancer cells, this test can also detect cells that have the potential to become cancerous.
2. Biopsy
A biopsy is a more in-depth examination of cervical tissue to confirm the presence or absence of cancer cells in the cervix.
A biopsy can be performed during a colposcopy examination. Colposcopy is a procedure performed by a doctor using a magnifying instrument to examine the symptoms and signs of cancer in the cervix.
3. Imaging Tests
Imaging tests such as MRI and CT scans may also be performed to determine the presence of malignant tumors in the cervix. These tests are usually performed to determine the severity of cancer or to determine the stage of cancer.
Treatment
Here are some types of treatment that can be done to treat cervical cancer:
1. Surgery
For early-stage cervical cancer that has not spread, treatment with surgery may be performed. Types of surgery include:
- Cone biopsy or conization
A procedure usually chosen if the tumor is still very small. It involves removing all cancerous tissue in the form of a triangle or cone and leaving other healthy cervical tissue intact. It is usually also chosen for individuals who plan to become pregnant in the future. - Trachelectomy
In this procedure, the entire cervix and surrounding tissue are removed. The uterus is not removed in this method, so it can still be performed on individuals planning to become pregnant. - Hysterectomy
Surgery to remove the cervix, uterus, part of the vagina, and tissue and lymph nodes around the cervix. This method is chosen if there are no plans for future pregnancy and is an effective step in preventing the recurrence of cervical cancer.
2. Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is a treatment that uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. Radiation can be performed externally, internally, or a combination of both.
- External radiation: High-energy radiation beams are directed directly from outside to the affected area of cancer.
- Internal radiation: Also called brachytherapy. The doctor will place a radiation source inside the cervix.
3. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves the use of powerful drugs to kill cancer cells. Low-dose chemotherapy is often combined with radiation therapy to treat cancer that has not spread.
If you need screening or treatment for cervical cancer, you can visit the Cancer Center at Royal Mandaya Hospital, which is equipped with world-class cancer treatment technology.
The oncology genomic laboratory at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri can accurately determine your cancer type and subtype so that you can receive the appropriate treatment.
Consult with a specialist now and get the best treatment for your cancer. Use the Chat feature via Whatsapp, Book Appointment, or the Care Doctor app which can be downloaded from Google Play and the App Store to facilitate visits, view queue numbers, and get other complete information.
