"HPV Vaccine" helps prevent cervical cancer easily

 HPV Vaccine

Cervical Cancer Protection

     Cervical cancer typically affects women over the age of 40, but doctors now report that it is increasingly being diagnosed in younger women. This has led to a significant number of deaths among Thai women. According to the Ministry of Public Health, cervical cancer causes around 5,200 deaths among Thai women each year, an average of 14 deaths per day. The number of cases is increasing by about 10,000 per year, with the highest incidence occurring in women aged 45-55.

What causes cervical cancer?

     Cervical cancer is primarily caused by an infection with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a virus that is transmitted through sexual contact. This virus is responsible for various diseases, including genital warts, but the strains that cause cervical cancer are high-risk and more aggressive.

How can you know if you have cervical cancer?

     Cervical cancer is particularly concerning because it often shows no symptoms in the early stages. During this time, abnormal cells may be present but have not yet developed into cancer. Because there are no symptoms, patients often neglect routine screening, such as the Pap smear, which can detect these abnormal cells before they turn into cancer. If left unchecked, symptoms may eventually appear, such as abnormal bleeding, unusual discharge with an odor, or bleeding after intercourse.

How is cervical cancer screened?

There are several methods for screening cervical cancer today:

• Conventional Pap Smear This traditional method has a sensitivity of 50-60% and specificity of 98%. However, its limitations include potential contamination of the sample, such as with blood or discharge, leading to inaccurate results (false negatives).
• Liquid-Based Cytology This is a more advanced method that involves collecting cervical cells using the same technique as the traditional Pap smear but then placing them in a preservative solution. This helps eliminate contaminants like mucus or blood and improves the accuracy of the test. Additionally, HPV testing can be done if abnormal cells are detected.

Who should get screened for cervical cancer?

• Women aged 25 and older who have had sexual intercourse, or women aged 30 and older who have never had sex.
• Women who have received the HPV vaccine should still undergo screening as usual.
• Women with compromised immune systems should be screened every 6 months during the first year of diagnosis and then annually thereafter.
• Women who started having sex at a young age, have had multiple pregnancies, or are smokers should also be screened.

The Recommendations

     Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women after breast cancer and can be deadly. However, if detected early, it is treatable.

Treatment of cervical cancer:

     Treatment for early-stage cervical cancer may involve removing the abnormal tissue or performing a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) in women who are done having children. Early detection can often lead to complete recovery. However, if the cancer progresses to later stages (1, 2, 3, or 4), it becomes more difficult to treat and may lead to more severe complications.

HPV Vaccine

The HPV vaccine, which prevents infection from the HPV virus, is an effective way to reduce the risk of cervical cancer. It is recommended for girls aged 9 and older and is given through an injection in the upper arm.

• The vaccine is highly effective in preventing cervical cancer and is a significant step in protecting women's health. It is strongly recommended to consult with an obstetrician-gynecologist for advice about the vaccine and to complement it with regular screening to maximize protection against cervical cancer.

It can be prevented through the HPV vaccine and detected early with regular screening. If caught early, it can be treated and cured, ensuring women live healthier, longer lives.