Dr. Sandhya Rani, Senior Consultant in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Aster Women and Children Hospital, offers an overview of cervical cancer, including what it is, what causes it, the symptoms, screening and prevention methods, and treatment options.
Prevalence of cervical cancer
The cervix is the opening of the uterus and cervical cancer is highly prevalent in India, attributing it to low screening rates and awareness.
Causes of cervical cancer
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the primary cause and is transmitted through sexual contact. She also mentions risk factors like early sexual activity, multiple sexual partners, smoking, and low immunity.
The symptoms include abnormal bleeding, pain during intercourse, and post-coital bleeding.
Screening and prevention
Dr. Sandhya discusses the importance of regular pap smears for early detection and the effectiveness of the HPV vaccine in preventing cervical cancer. She provides details about who should get vaccinated, the recommended dosage based on age, and potential side effects of the vaccine.
In case of any queries or for further information, consult the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Aster Women and Children Hospital.
