Cervical Cancer Treatment in India: Understanding HPV and Risk Factors

Cervical cancer remains one of the most significant health challenges for women in India, but it is also one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer. With advancements in medical technology and increased awareness, the landscape of cervical cancer treatment in India is evolving rapidly. This blog aims to provide a clear understanding of cervical cancer, its link to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the risk factors involved, and the preventive measures available, including vaccination and screening.

What is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer starts in the cervix. The cervix is the narrow, lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. This disease happens when cells in the cervix grow abnormally and out of control.  India bears a disproportionately high burden of the disease, accounting for nearly one-fourth of the global cervical cancer cases. This high incidence is primarily due to a lack of awareness about prevention, limited access to healthcare screening in rural areas, and the high prevalence of HPV infection. Often, the disease goes undetected because its early symptoms can be mistaken for less serious conditions .

The Primary Cause: Understanding HPV

The primary cause of cervical cancer is a persistent infection with high-risk types of Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted virus. HPV is a common virus. In fact, most sexually active people will get it at least once.  In most cases, the body`s immune system clears the infection naturally. However, when a high-risk HPV infection persists for years, it can cause the cells of the cervix to become cancerous. In fact, persistent HPV infection is responsible for 95% of cervical cancers. This is why the HPV test is a critical tool in modern screening, as it detects the presence of the virus before any abnormal cells even develop.

Cervical Cancer Symptoms You Should Not Ignore

Often, there are no warning signs at first. But when the cancer advances, women may notice the following symptoms:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding (between periods or after menopause)
• Bleeding after intercourse
• Unusual vaginal discharge with foul smell
• Pain during sexual activity
• Pelvic pain or lower back pain
• Frequent urination or discomfort while passing urine

If you notice these symptoms, visit a doctor immediately for a check-up.

Key Risk Factors for Cervical Cancer

While HPV is the main cause, several risk factors can increase a woman’s chance of developing cervical cancer. These include:

• Early Sexual Activity and Multiple Partners: Starting sexual activity at a young age or having multiple sexual partners increases the risk of HPV exposure .
• Weakened Immune System: Conditions like HIV/AIDS or long-term use of immunosuppressive drugs can weaken the body’s ability to fight off HPV infection
• Tobacco Use: Smoking or consuming tobacco weakens the local immune response in the cervix and damages cervical cells, making them more vulnerable to cancerous changes .
• Long-term Oral Contraceptive Use: Using birth control pills for more than five years may slightly increase risk .
• Multiple Pregnancies: Having multiple full-term pregnancies, especially at a young age (before 17), is also a contributing factor .
  

The HPV Vaccine: A Safe Way to Prevent Cervical Cancer

The HPV vaccine is a safe and simple way to protect against cervical cancer. It works by stopping the most dangerous types of HPV infection, which is the main cause of this disease.

Who Should Take the HPV Vaccine?

• Best age: Girls and boys between 9 and 14 years old. It works best at this age.
• Catch-up age: Young adults up to 26 years can also take it.
• Even if sexually active: You can still talk to a doctor about taking the vaccine after this age.

Benefits of HPV Vaccine

• It prevents most cases of cervical cancer.
• It also lowers the risk of other cancers caused by HPV.
• It is safe and has been tested worldwide.

In India, awareness is growing. The HPV vaccine for cervical cancer in Ahmedabad is now easy to find at many hospitals and clinics. Taking this small step can protect your health for a lifetime.

Protect Yourself: Free Cervical Cancer Vaccination on 4 March

PAN Shalby is organizing a Free HPV Vaccination Drive on March 4th to help prevent cervical cancer. This event is part of their efforts to support women’s health. The main goals are to teach people about the link between HPV and cervical cancer, encourage early vaccination, and make healthcare accessible to everyone. Under this initiative, eligible girls and young women can get the HPV vaccine for free. This will help protect them from cervical cancer in the future. Drives like this are very important in India, where many lives are lost due to lack of information and late detection. Getting vaccinated early is a simple step that can save lives tomorrow.

Cervical Cancer Care at Shalby Hospitals

Shalby Hospitals is a trusted name in India for advanced cancer care. The hospital has a team of expert cancer doctors and modern equipment to test and treat cancer. Patients can get complete cervical cancer treatment in one place. This includes HPV screening, the HPV vaccine, surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and care after treatment. The focus is always on giving timely and personal care to every woman. If you are looking for the HPV vaccine for cervical cancer Ahmedabad, Shalby Hospitals is the right place. You can get the vaccine and talk to specialist doctors who guide you through every step. Whether you notice any cervical cancer symptoms or simply want to protect yourself or your daughter, expert help is available.

Do not wait. Visit Shalby Hospitals today. Finding cancer early and getting the right treatment can save lives. Shalby Hospitals is proud to lead this effort across India.