What Is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer begins when abnormal cells in the cervix—the lower part of the uterus—grow uncontrollably. The two primary types are:
- Squamous cell carcinoma (≈ 90%)
- Adenocarcinoma (≈ 10%)
Causes & Risk Factors
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Nearly all cases stem from persistent infection with high-risk strains like HPV‑16 and ‑18.
- Other key risk factors include smoking, a weakened immune system (e.g., HIV), long-term birth control use, early sexual activity, and having multiple sexual partners.
Prevention Is Paramount
- HPV Vaccination: Recommended at ages 9–26 and considered up to age 45—to prevent up to ~90% of cervical cancers.
- Regular Screening: Pap tests, HPV testing, or co-testing should begin between ages 21–25 and continue through your mid-60s.
- Healthy Lifestyle: Practice safe sex, avoid smoking, and support your immune system.
💡 Did you know? If you qualify, you can receive a free Pap test at Aslan Health through our SAGE program. We encourage all eligible women to take advantage of this important resource.
Detect Early, Treat Effectively
Cervical cancer often shows no symptoms in its early stages. As it progresses, signs might include:
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Pelvic or lower back pain
- Pain during intercourse
When detected early (Stage I), the 5-year survival rate is around 85%. However, this rate diminishes significantly in later stages.
Diagnosis & Staging
Diagnosis often starts with a Pap and/or HPV test, followed by a colposcopy and biopsy if needed. Staging ranges from:
- Stage I: Cancer confined to the cervix
- Stage IV: Cancer spread to distant organs (e.g., bladder, lungs)
Treatment Options
Surgery
- Hysterectomy: Removing the uterus—common in early-stage cases.
- Radical trachelectomy: Removes cancerous tissue while preserving fertility when possible.
Radiation Therapy
Often paired with chemotherapy, radiation targets cancer cells in the affected area.
Chemotherapy
Drugs like cisplatin and paclitaxel are commonly used, often alongside radiation.
Immunotherapy
Checkpoint inhibitors (e.g., pembrolizumab, nivolumab, cemiplimab) may be offered for advanced or recurrent cancer.
Life After Treatment
Support doesn’t end with treatment. Survivors often benefit from:
- Ongoing monitoring
- Management of side effects such as fertility, sexual health, and emotional well-being
- Support groups, counseling, and survivorship programs
On the Horizon: Research & Innovation
Emerging advances include:
- Next-generation HPV vaccines
- New targeted and precision therapies
- Advanced radiotherapy delivery
- Enhanced immunotherapies
These innovations bring hope for more effective and personalized treatments.
Why Cervical Cancer Awareness Matters
Despite being highly preventable and treatable, cervical cancer continues to affect over 600,000 women annually worldwide. The disease disproportionately impacts low- and middle-income countries due to gaps in screening and vaccination.
By raising awareness, supporting HPV vaccination, promoting regular screening, and offering accessible resources like the SAGE program’s free Pap tests, Aslan Health plays a vital role in protecting women’s health.
Take Action with Aslan Health
- Get the HPV vaccine—especially for preteens and eligible adults.
- Stay on schedule with Pap or co-testing, and ask if you qualify for a free Pap test through the SAGE program.
- Adopt healthy habits: avoid smoking, use protection during sex, and get regular check-ups.
- Seek support: from counseling to survivorship communities, Aslan is here for you.
Final Thoughts
Cervical cancer is largely preventable and treatable. Early detection—through vaccination and routine screening—is key. With Aslan Health’s comprehensive care and programs like SAGE, every woman has the opportunity to protect her health. Let’s work together to eliminate cervical cancer—one test, one vaccine, one empowered woman at a time. Learn More at the American Cancer Society