How can cervical cancer be prevented?

In an episode of Pinoy MD, obstetrician-gynecologist Dr. Renee Sicam explained that of the different types of genital tract cancers, cervical cancer has the most number of cases, in the Philippines. 

But did you know that cervical cancer isn’t genetic and it can be prevented?

According to Sicam, cerival cancer is only “leading because not all women have access to screening. It’s essential for people to give it attention since cervical cancer is a preventable disease.” 

According to Dr. Sicam, cervical cancer is not genetic and is mainly caused by a virus called the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).

“High risk HPV 16 or 18 is predominant. When a woman gets infected with HPV 16 and 18 and the infection doesn’t get cleared for a long time, it’ll affect the cells of the uterus.”

“When a woman does not have high-risk HPV, she won’t have cervical cancer,” she added.

One can get HPV when your skin comes into contact, or when you have sexual intercourse with an infected person or genitals that are already infected.

There are various ways to know if a woman has been infected with HPV and in turn prevent cancer. There is pap smear, taking an HPV-DNA test, and a visual inspection with acetic acid.

“Unlike the breast which can be checked through a self-breast exam, the cervix can only be checked through regular checkups with an OB-GYNE,” Dr. Sicam said.

Apart from refraining from having sex with more than one person, Dr. Sicam said lifestyle changes should also be done.

“Avoid smoking, having sex and getting pregnant at a young age, and make sure to do precautionary measures like getting inoculated with the vaccine,” she said.

According to Mayo Clinic, cervical cancer is the type that occurs in the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Its symptoms include vaginal bleeding and discharge. — Franchesca Viernes/LA, GMA News