Pap tests, safe sex, and more: How to prevent cervical cancer?

New Delhi: Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers with the right steps and timely action. Experts share tips that can help reduce your risk while taking charge of your health. Cervical cancer develops in cells of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. This particular type of cancer in women is commonly caused by high-risk strains of HPV (human papillomavirus). The HPV virus is transmitted through sexual contact. While cervical cancer sounds concerning and life-threatening, it can also be prevented easily. The risk of cervical cancer in women can be lowered with the help of regular screening, vaccines, and certain lifestyle modifications.

In an interaction with News9Live, Dr. Neemesh Lodh, Breast Surgical Oncologist, AIMS Hospital, Dombivli, said, “Detecting cervical cancer at its initial stage can help identify abnormal changes in your cells early before they transform into cancerous cells. Here are some easy preventive tips that can help reduce your risk of cervical cancer and improve your cervical health. Whether you are in your early 20s or beyond, you should follow these steps to protect yourself from this cancer.”

Tips to Prevent Cervical Cancer

Regular Pap smears and HPV tests: Scheduling Pap smears and HPV tests regularly can be helpful. These tests significantly help detect abnormal activities in the cervical cells that could potentially turn into cancer. Regular screenings are beneficial and recommended for early detection and prevention of cervical cancer.
Get the HPV vaccine: Women can usually take the HPV vaccine from the age of 9 to 26. But even those up to the age of 45 can get this vaccine for the betterment of their health. This particular vaccine helps you protect from the high-risk strains of the HPV virus, which is known to cause cervical cancer.
Practice safe sex: The HPV virus is mostly transmitted through sexual contact. This is why it becomes crucial to practice safe sex. To prevent the risk of contracting the HPV virus one needs to use condoms, and limit getting intimate with multiple partners. However, women should stay cautious as HPV can still spread through skin-to-skin contact.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Having an unhealthy lifestyle can weaken your immune system. This can make it harder for your body to fight off the HPV virus. Eating healthy and well-balanced meals can help strengthen your immune system while lowering the risk of infection. Also, managing your stress levels, and staying physically active can help support your cervical health.

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