Cervical Cancer: Benefits of An Early Diagnosis

Cervical cancer is a major cause of health concerns in India. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), India has approximately one-fourth of the world's cervical cancer deaths, with more than 75,000 women losing their lives due to this condition. Cervical cancer grows slowly in the cervix and often shows no symptoms until it’s already advanced. Thus, early detection of cervical cancer is important. It is one of the few types of cancers that can actually be prevented and cured early on if detected in time. So, keep reading to learn how you can remain ahead of cervical cancer through regular check-ups and smart decisions.

What Is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer begins in the cells of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. It usually develops slowly and starts with changes in the cervical cells known as precancerous lesions. These abnormal cells can take years to become cancer. If found early through screening, these changes can be treated and removed before they turn into cervical cancer.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the main cause of cervical cancer. HPV is spread through sexual contact. There are numerous forms of HPV, but several high-risk types can trigger cervical cancer. In the majority of people, the body can eliminate the virus from the system. If the high-risk HPV stays in the body for years, the cervical changes caused by it will eventually lead to cancer.

What Are the Common Symptoms of Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer often doesn’t cause any symptoms in the early stages. If they do appear, then it may include:

• Unusual vaginal bleeding (especially after sex, between periods, or after menopause)
• Pelvic pain or pain during sex
• Unusual vaginal discharge with a strong odor or blood

Consult a healthcare specialist at Apollo Spectra if you notice any of these symptoms. Screening is also very important as the identification of early cervical cancer symptoms and diagnosis can save lives.

The best times to get tested for cervical cancer are:

• Ages 21–29: Get a Pap test every 3 years.
• Ages 30–65: Get a Pap and HPV test together every 5 years (called co-testing), or a Pap test alone every 3 years.
• Over 65: You may stop testing if your past results have been normal.

Tests to Detect Cervical Cancer Early

Early diagnosis saves lives in cervical cancer by finding abnormal cells before they turn into cancer. Simple tests like the Pap smear and HPV test can catch problems early, often before any symptoms appear and prevent serious complications:

Pap Smear (Pap Test)

The Pap smear checks for abnormal changes in cervical cells, i.e., the growth of precancerous cells. A doctor gently collects cells from the cervix using a small brush. The sample is sent to a lab for examination. Women should begin Pap tests at age 21 and repeat them every 3 years if results are normal.

HPV Test

The HPV test looks for high-risk types of human papillomavirus that can cause cervical cancer. It can be done on its own or at the same time as a Pap smear. This test is especially recommended for women aged 30 and older. Detecting HPV early allows doctors to monitor for possible cell changes and take action before cancer appears.

Also Read: Tips to Overcome Premenstrual Syndrome

What are the Benefits of Early Cervical Cancer Screening?

Cervical cancer does not usually cause symptoms in its early stages. Hence, regular testing is the best way to catch it before it becomes dangerous. The cervical cancer screening benefits are: 

1. Finding Precancerous Changes

Early cervical cancer screening can detect precancerous changes in cervical cells, called dysplasia. These abnormal cells are not cancer yet, but they can turn into cancer over time if not treated. When doctors find dysplasia early through a Pap smear or HPV test, they can remove the cells and stop cervical cancer from spreading before it starts.

2. Treating Cancer Early

Treatment is usually more effective if cervical cancer is found in the early stages. Early-stage cancer is smaller and has not spread to other parts of the body. This allows doctors to use less aggressive treatments like minor surgery. Timely detection also improves the chances of curing the cancer and reduces long-term complications from treatment.

3. Better Survival Rate

When the cancer is still localised (only in the cervix), the 5-year survival rate is over 90%. This means that most women treated early live at least five years or longer. Regular screening greatly improves the chances of catching the cancer before it spreads and becomes harder to treat.

4. Lower Medical Costs

Treating cervical cancer in the early stages costs much less than treating it after it has spread. Early treatments may involve minor procedures or outpatient care. Advanced cervical cancer often needs expensive treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, or major surgery. Early screening reduces the financial burden and also saves money for both patients and healthcare systems.

5. Reduces the Need for Major Procedures

Early detection also reduces the need for complex treatments like a full hysterectomy or chemotherapy. Treating small changes early means less damage to surrounding organs and fewer side effects for the patient.

6. Save Lives

How early diagnosis saves lives in cervical cancer is clear from medical research. Catching the disease early means it's easier to treat. Treatments work better in the early stages. Women have a higher chance of survival. Regular screening can truly be life-saving, as it gives time, hope, and better outcomes.

Prevention of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer prevention through early diagnosis includes getting the HPV vaccine, regular screening, and practicing safe sex. Studies show that HPV vaccination can reduce cervical cancer risk by up to 90%. So, follow these steps to prevent HPV infection and cervical cancer: 

• Get the HPV Vaccine

The HPV vaccine protects against the high-risk HPV types that cause most cervical cancers. It works best when given before exposure to the virus, ideally before sexual activity begins. The vaccine is recommended for boys and girls starting at age 9 and is most effective by ages 11–12. It may still benefit people up to age 26.

• Go for Regular Screening Tests

Pap smears and HPV tests detect abnormal cervical cells and the presence of high-risk HPV strains. Women should follow a routine testing schedule based on age and health history. These screenings are a key part of cervical cancer prevention and early treatment.

• Practice Safe Sex

HPV spreads mainly through sexual contact. Using barrier protection like condoms reduces the risk of HPV and other sexually transmitted infections. The chances of infection are also lowered by limiting the number of sexual partners and avoiding high-risk sexual behaviours.

Protect Your Health with Cervical Cancer Early Detection!

Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers that can be prevented and treated early when caught in time. Women can take control of their health and avoid serious complications by regular screening, early diagnosis, and healthy lifestyle choices. Screening methods like the Pap test and HPV test are simple and effective tools that can save lives. The HPV vaccine is also a powerful way to prevent cervical cancer before it starts. 

Choose Apollo Spectra Hospitals for expert guidance, regular screenings, and personalised care. Book an appointment with our experienced gynaecologists and take a step towards a healthier future.