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Cervical Cancer

What is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It is primarily caused by persistent infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV).

Historical Background

Cervical cancer was once a leading cause of cancer death for women. The development of Pap tests and HPV vaccines has significantly reduced its incidence and mortality.

Key Points

9 points
  • 1.

    Cervical cancer is largely preventable through vaccination and screening.

  • 2.

    Persistent infection with high-risk types of HPV is the primary cause.

  • 3.

    Symptoms may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, and pain during intercourse.

  • 4.

    Screening methods include Pap tests and HPV tests.

  • 5.

    Early detection and treatment can significantly improve outcomes.

  • 6.

    Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

  • 7.

    The National Cancer Control Programme aims to reduce the burden of cervical cancer.

  • 8.

    Cervical cancer disproportionately affects women in low-resource settings.

  • 9.

    Regular screening is recommended for women starting at age 21.

Visual Insights

Cervical Cancer Prevention and Management

Flowchart illustrating the process of cervical cancer prevention and management, from screening to diagnosis and treatment.

  1. 1.Regular Screening (Pap Test/HPV Test)
  2. 2.Abnormal Results
  3. 3.Colposcopy and Biopsy
  4. 4.Diagnosis: Pre-cancerous or Cancerous
  5. 5.Treatment (Surgery, Radiation, Chemotherapy)
  6. 6.Follow-up and Monitoring
  7. 7.Prevention: HPV Vaccination
  8. 8.Reduced Risk of Cervical Cancer

Recent Developments

5 developments

Increased access to HPV vaccines and cervical cancer screening in many countries.

Development of new screening technologies.

Research into more effective treatment options.

Efforts to raise awareness about cervical cancer and its prevention.

Integration of cervical cancer prevention services into primary healthcare.

Source Topic

HPV Vaccine: Herd Protection Against Cervical Cancer Demonstrated in Study

Science & Technology

UPSC Relevance

Important for UPSC GS Paper 2 (Health) and GS Paper 3 (Science and Technology). Questions can be asked about cervical cancer, its prevention, and treatment.

Cervical Cancer Prevention and Management

Flowchart illustrating the process of cervical cancer prevention and management, from screening to diagnosis and treatment.

Regular Screening (Pap Test/HPV Test)

Abnormal Results

1

Colposcopy and Biopsy

Diagnosis: Pre-cancerous or Cancerous

2

Treatment (Surgery, Radiation, Chemotherapy)

3

Follow-up and Monitoring

4

Prevention: HPV Vaccination

Reduced Risk of Cervical Cancer