APRIL is observed in Jamaica as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, a time used to highlight cancer of the cervix, which is one of the most frequent cancers among Jamaican women. It’s the fourth most common cancer in Jamaica overall, the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Jamaican women, and the most common in women over 30 years old.

Cervical cancer is caused by the growth of malignant cells in the cervix. The cervix is the neck of the uterus. Most cases of cervical cancer are associated with the Human papillomavirus (HPV), which is transmitted by skin to skin contact. HPV is usually harmless and goes away by itself, but some types can lead to cancer or genital warts. It is possible for women of all ages to get cervical cancer.

What you should know

Screening for cervical cancer is important for monitoring the health of the cervix and detecting any abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix that could later lead to cancer. The two main screening tests are Pap smears and the HPV test. Done regularly, these tests can detect abnormalities early, and patients can be referred for treatment. It is recommended that these screening tests start at age 21 years old.

Condom usage alone does not prevent the spread of the virus. The HPV viral particle is so small that it can get past condoms.Cervical cancer is 100 per cent preventable. The combination of the HPV vaccination, Pap smears and HPV testing are the best ways to prevent cervical cancer and saves lives.

Who is at risk?

Women are at a higher risk if they smoke, have given birth three or more times, or have several sexual partners.

Symptoms

Cancer of the cervix may not show any signs in the early stages. In its advanced stage, women experience:

Spotting or light bleeding between or following periods.

Menstrual bleeding that is longer and heavier than usual

Unexplained, persistent pelvic (belly bottom) pain, or back pain.

Bleeding after intercourse, douching or a pelvic examination

Increased vaginal discharge

Pain during intercourse

Bleeding after menopause.

Where to get screened

Screening is offered through public and private health facilities islandwide. Early detection is very important for outcome. Treatment may be surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy or a combination of these. Public and private facilities provide some forms of treatment.

Most women do not need a Pap test every year, but screening should start at age 21. If your results are normal, you can wait up to three years before getting tested again.

At 30 years old, women may screen with a Pap smear alone, or Pap smear with HPV testing.

Women can stop getting screened if they’re 65 and older, and have had several years of normal results, or if the cervix has been removed by surgery, for a non-cancerous condition such as fibroids.

Protection

Protection against some of the types of Human papillomavirus is provided by the HPV vaccine which is currently offered to girls nine to 14 years of age in Jamaica. The vaccine does not treat HPV, but protects against the strains of HPV that cause 70 per cent of cervical cancer. Cervical cancer can be treated and even cured if diagnosed early.

— Jamaica Cancer Society, NHF