Millions of women worldwide are at a high risk of developing cervical cancer, a very prevalent and insidious oncological disease. Luckily, it is largely preventable through vaccination, regular screenings, and lifestyle modifications catered to the individual’s habits and needs.
However, not many people know about cervical cancer, its origins, and its risks. Thus, this article will discuss the role of the human papillomavirus, commonly known as HPV, in cervical cancer. It will also teach you about preventative measures that empower you to safeguard and optimize your health.
Hopefully, this helps minimize your exposure to HPV, and if it’s too late, prevent it from progressing to cancer. Read below to explore scientific insights into preventing cervical cancer. Stay informed and read on to prioritize optimal cervical health.
The role of HPV in cervical cancer
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a viral microorganism commonly transmitted through sexual intercourse, affecting both men and women alike.
Due to the pathogen’s genetic variance, most infections are harmless, especially among men. However, some high-risk strains, like HPV 16 and 18, lead to a phenomenon known as metaplasia. This is the conversion of a specialized layer of cells normally found in the cervix into new, transformed cells, potentially progressing toward malignant cervical cancer.
If left untreated, the pre-cancerous lesions can quickly spread towards other areas like the vagina or pelvic wall until they reach other organs via metastasis, developing into several types of cancer.
Common risk factors for cervical cancer
Cervical cancer is an insidious but highly preventable disease. One of the most impactful things you can do is to understand the various risk factors that make you more exposed to developing cervical cancer. Learn about them below.
Unprotected sexual intercourse
The primary form of transmission for HPV is via sexual contact. The risk is higher without wearing protective barrier devices like condoms. But condoms alone are not enough. Although condoms reduce the risk, they don’t eliminate it.
Moreover, multiple sexual partners increase the likelihood of HPV skin-to-skin transmission. This is why safe sex practices, including minimizing the number of sexual partners if necessary, can mitigate the risk of cervical cancer.
Smoking
Tobacco smoking is a vice that damages multiple organ systems.
One system that is primarily affected is the immune system, which is weakened by constant inflammation. Therefore, the individual becomes more susceptible to infection and has a reduced ability to clear any pathogen from the system. This makes it easier for the HPV pathogen to persist and cause cellular or genetic changes.
Studies have also shown that smoking can accelerate precancerous lesions. These turn into malignant cells, or cancer, more often, especially when compared to non-smokers. This is because certain chemicals damage the DNA found in cervical tissue.
Weakened immune system
Besides smoking, factors like HIV/AIDS, chronic illnesses, and certain medications also weaken your immune system. Cancerous lesions can more easily develop with your body’s primary defense in this state, as your body can’t clear viruses as quickly.
Lack of regular cervical screenings
Skipping regular screenings significantly increases your risk of developing cervical cancer.
These tests can detect precancerous changes before they become malignant and cancerous. When done right, cervical treatment lets medical professionals treat abnormal cells. The entire operation is also simpler and, thus, is more likely to succeed. End-stage cervical cancer is far more insidious and advanced.
Therefore, policymakers and advocates of women’s reproductive health have established a cervical cancer awareness week lasting from January 22 to January 28th. This promotes the importance of regular pap smears and frequent checkups to prevent cervical cancer.
How to prevent cervical cancer
Women must implement proactive steps and countermeasures to statistically reduce the risk of transmitting and contracting HPV.
Here are some best practices to keep in mind:
HPV vaccines
The HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing HPV, especially the strains that cause malignancies. Thus, it’s a crucial weapon in your arsenal for preventing cervical cancer.
It is highly recommended for girls and young women between the ages of 9 and 26. Men are also encouraged, despite their asymptomatic presentation, to reduce transmission and infection rates.
Based on the specific vaccine and the recipient’s age, the vaccine should be administered in a series of two to three doses. Complying with these standards increases the vaccine’s efficiency.
Regular cervical screening
Multiple obstetrics and gynecological boards recommend regular cervical screening, as early detection can make a big difference in the overall outcome of potential cervical cancer.
Precancerous changes in the cervix can be detected through pap smears, a technique that involves scraping the cells from the surface of the cervix.
Additional procedures involve cervical sampling, which is done by inserting a brush into the cervical opening. The samples are then displayed on a glass slide and presented to the laboratory for analysis, which detects any signs of HPV DNA.
According to leading experts, the ages 21 and 25 is the best time to start screening for cervical cancer. Screening frequency varies depending on the age and individual risk factors a woman might possess. The guidelines include several methods and frequencies for different age groups, which are as follows:
- Women aged 21 – 29: Undergo cervical psychology or a Pap test every 3 years.
- The board recommends three options for women aged 30 – 65: Cervical cytology alone every 3 years, HPV testing alone every 5 years, or cool testing, which includes both techniques every 5 years.
- After the age of 65: The board recommends against screening women who have had an extensive history of adequate screening and are otherwise not at high risk.
- Women who have had a total hysterectomy or removal of the uterus and cervix: Based on the risk factors mentioned previously, more frequent screening may be required for women in this category.
Safe sex practice
Proper sexual education is a must. By learning the basics of sexually transmitted diseases, people can prevent sex-related illnesses, such as HPV.
These don’t have to be complicated changes. For example, using condoms during sexual intercourse can help limit transmission and reduce infectious cases drastically.
Quitting smoking
As previously mentioned, smoking poses a significant risk factor for cervical cancer; therefore, quitting tobacco drastically reduces the risk of developing malignancies.
You can gradually taper off nicotine via patches or gums. You can also stop cold turkey. Whatever method you choose, utilize communities like emotional support groups to reinforce your new but challenging, positive habits.
Maintaining an enhanced immune system
Ensuring a healthy and balanced lifestyle contributes to a healthy immune system capable of battling any infection, including HPV.
These modifications include consistent diet changes, regular exercise, and stress management, which ultimately improve quality of life and enhance longevity.
Read more: Natural Ways to Boost Your Immune System
International organizations have advocated for battling cervical cancer. It’s a preventable disease; you must understand its origins and avoid risk factors.
In conclusion
Human papillomavirus, if left untreated, can lead to cervical cancer. Early detection and prevention are key to reducing this risk. With the knowledge from this article, you can empower yourself by taking the necessary proactive steps to protect cervical health.
You can work towards a cancer-free future by adopting several countermeasures, such as HPV vaccinations, implementing a healthy lifestyle, and regular screening.
Start being proactive. Schedule your vaccination and regular pap smear now, and take control of your cervical health.
If you would like to see more resources on the cervix, check out the Longevity Science Labs. The lab uses the research of the Institute for Life Management Science to produce courses, certifications, podcasts, videos, and other tools. Visit the Longevity Science Labs today.
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