Why are more girls becoming victims of cervical cancer? Doctor said to get this test done after 21

Cancer Awareness Month: Every year January is celebrated as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, so that women can be made aware of cervical cancer. According to health experts, in recent years there has been a rapid increase in the cases of this cancer among girls and young women. The biggest reason for this is HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) infection and lack of awareness among girls.

The doctor gave this information

Gynecologist and IVF Expert at Narayana’s Nurture, Delhi Dr Archana Dhawan Bajaj It says that HPV is a sexually transmitted virus, which is considered the main cause of cervical cancer. Unprotected sex, sexual activity at an early age, multiple partners, smoking and weak immunity increase the risk of HPV infection. In most cases, HPV infection resolves on its own, but when it persists in the body for a long time, it may eventually lead to cervical cancer.

Early symptoms get ignored

According to the doctor, the biggest challenge of cervical cancer is that in the initial stage its symptoms are very mild or not understood. For this reason, in many cases the disease is caught in the advanced stage.

These are the initial symptoms

• Abnormal bleeding between or after periods.
• Pain or bleeding during intercourse.
• Abnormal leakage.
• Pelvic pain.

The doctor says that if these symptoms are understood and identified and investigation is started immediately, then it will be easier to treat the disease. This can also lead to success in treatment.

Necessary screening after the age of 21

Health experts believe that after the age of 21, every woman should get Pap Smear test done regularly. This test detects early changes in the cells of the cervix, making treatment possible before cancer develops. Along with this, HPV test also helps in identifying the infection.

Why is HPV vaccination important?

The HPV vaccine is the most effective way to prevent cervical cancer. This vaccine is most effective between the ages of 9 to 26 years, but it can be taken at older ages also as per doctor’s advice. Dr. says that about 70-90% cases of cervical cancer can be prevented with this vaccine.

Doctor gave important advice

Experts say that due to shame, fear and lack of information, women mostly avoid testing, which can prove fatal for them in the future. Safe sexual behaviour, abstinence from smoking and strong immunity also help in reducing the risk.

Cervical cancer is a challenge for women

Dr. Dhawan says that cervical cancer still remains a major health challenge for women, but it is completely preventable. Cervical Cancer Awareness Month is a time to remind women that awareness, vaccination and regular checkups are the strongest way to protect against this threat.