As we observe World Cancer Day in 2023, it's crucial to shed light on one of the prevalent and often preventable forms of cancer affecting women – cervical cancer. Cervical cancer arises from the cervix, the lower part of the uterus, and is primarily caused by persistent infections with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). This article aims to provide a brief overview of the different types of cervical cancer, emphasizing the importance of awareness, prevention, and early detection.

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Types of Cervical Cancer:

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC):

  • This is the most common type, accounting for approximately 70-90% of all cervical cancer cases.
  • SCC originates in the thin, flat cells lining the outer part of the cervix.
  • Early stages are often asymptomatic, underscoring the significance of routine screenings like Pap smears.

Adenocarcinoma:

  • Comprising 10-25% of cervical cancer cases, adenocarcinoma develops in the glandular cells lining the cervical canal.
  • It tends to occur in younger women and may be more challenging to detect through conventional Pap smears.

Adenosquamous Carcinoma:

  • This is a less common but aggressive form, exhibiting characteristics of both squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial due to its tendency to spread more rapidly.

Small Cell Carcinoma:

  • Accounting for a small percentage of cases, small cell carcinoma is an aggressive subtype that often requires a distinct treatment approach.
  • It tends to grow and spread quickly, making early detection essential for effective intervention.

Prevention and Early Detection:

Preventing cervical cancer involves vaccination against high-risk HPV types, practicing safe sex, and regular screenings. Vaccination is a powerful tool to protect against the most common HPV types, and routine screenings, such as Pap smears and HPV tests, enable early detection and intervention.