Cervical cancer remains a major health concern in Kenya, with over 40.1 new cases diagnosed per 100,000. According to the Division of National Cancer Control Program and the Ministry of Health, cervical cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in the country.
January is cervical cancer awareness month, making it the perfect time to address this menace. Here at Discovering Her, we are joining the World Health Organization (WHO) global campaign and strategy of ending cervical cancer by getting informed, screened, and vaccinated.
Getting Informed: Understanding Cervical Cancer.
Cervical cancer develops in a woman’s cervix when the cell lining begins to grow out of control. That is the entrance to the uterus from the vagina. Cervical cancer also referred to as cancer of the neck of the womb, is the most common cancer after breast cancer. It affects women of all ages, specifically from age 15 to 45. It is caused by a high-risk virus called Human papillomavirus (HPV).
HPV At A Glance.
There are more than 100 types of Human papillomaviruses. 40% of them can infect the genital area. Fourteen types of HPV viruses are ranked as ‘high risk’, which cause cancers like cervical cancer. 99% of all cervical cancer cases are linked to infection with HPV.
There are also other types of HPV viruses classified as ‘low risk’, which cause anal and genital warts. HPV is transmitted through sexual intercourse and skin-to-skin contact with infected people. Men are carriers of the virus, and anyone sexually active is at risk of contracting it. Research also indicates that the use of condoms during sexual intercourse is not 100% foolproof. The virus can also infect the surrounding skin that is not protected by the condom.
Once you have contracted HPV, it takes 10 to 15 years for it to develop into cancer. Numerous studies, however, show that HPV infections disappear on their own without showing any signs or symptoms. Nevertheless, should the virus persist, that’s when it leads to complications such as cervical cancer and genital warts.
Get Screened: Importance of Cervical Cancer Screening.
Cervical cancer is highly treatable if detected early. Cervical cancer screening, also known as ‘Pap smear’ or ‘Pap test,’ detects abnormal cells in the cervix. According to WHO, women should be screened for cervical cancer every five to ten years from age 30.
The organization also encourages that sexually active women should undergo HPV tests by age 35 and 45 years old. There are no symptoms of cervical cancer during the early stages. Therefore, you must stay on top of things by regularly screening for cancerous cells. Unvarying screening reduces the risk of progressed cancer by 90%.
Treatment of cancerous or precancers, as they are often referred to, is easy. It is also painless, thus causing infrequent complications. However, should the precancers remain unchecked, they progress into full-blown cervical cancer. WHO advises women to seek health care advice should they notice the following signs and symptoms.
Warning Signs of Cervical Cancer.
- Unusual bleeding between menstruation, after sexual intercourse and after menopause.
- Excessive vaginal discharge that’s also foul-smelling.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Fatigue.
- Loss of appetite.
- Persistent pain in the legs, back and pelvis
- Vaginal discomfort.
If it is declared that you do have cervical cancer, don’t fret. It can be cured. There are several treatments, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery. However, it is essential to note that early detection is a key determinant of your progress to healing and cure. So, schedule a pap smear today!
Get Vaccinated: A Robust Preventive Measure.
HPV viruses and infections, which cause cancers, can be prevented through vaccination. According to the European Union Vaccination Information Portal, the HPV vaccine should be administered to both boys and girls. It should be administered between the ages of 9 and 14 before the children become sexually active.
The World Health Organization shows that vaccination against HPV reduces cervical cancer by 70%, especially if it is administered before exposure to HPV. That is right before having sex for the first time. However, Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) argues that you can still benefit from the HPV vaccination even if you are already sexually active. Remember, at any age, having a new sexual partner is a risk factor for getting a new HPV infection. Yep! Get that vaccination today!
Take Action Today.
Cervical cancer is preventable through awareness, regular screening and vaccination. Let’s prioritize women’s health by spreading the word, scheduling screening and getting vaccinated. Join the movement today! ♥
For more information, check out these resources:
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cervical-cancer
https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/news-events/january-cervical-cancer-awareness-month-2025
https://vaccination-info.europa.eu/en/human-papillomavirus-hpv
http://guidelines.health.go.ke:8000/media/Cervical-Cancer-Prevention-Screening-Early-detection-Participant_ManualPg_1-21_September_2021.pdf
Mourine Warui is a media and communication expert and seasoned writer. Her goal is to empower and offer solutions to everyday girl’s problems while provoking candid and authentic conversations. Other goals are to provide inspiration and entertainment to readers through creative, thought-provoking and edgy stories.
Very informative piece.