Regular check-ups can save your life
September is cervical cancer awareness month, and by going for regular pap smears women can prevent or detect the disease early.
The cervix is the lower part of the uterus, and it is one of the most common cancers among South African women. It is curable if detected and treated in the early stages.
Regular pap smears can detect abnormal cells in the cervix that could develop into cervical cancer. Although this test is uncomfortable, it is relatively painless.
Women can lower their risk of getting cancer by being aware of the importance of early detection. This enables more effective treatment and a better chance of recovery.
Symptoms of cervical cancer include:
n Pelvic pain that is unrelated to other conditions such as menstruating or physical exertion.
n Pain during intercourse.
n Bleeding, heavy periods or heavy spotting between periods or additional periods during a monthly cycle.
n Abnormal discharge.
Cansa also encourages women to prevent female cancers by avoiding hormone therapy, using condoms to prevent STD’s, such as the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), which is a high risk factor for cervical cancer.
Women can also consult their doctors on the HPV vaccine.
HPV vaccines are up to 90 per cent effective against the two most common cancer-causing HPV strains (16 and 18) in women who have not yet contracted the virus.
