15 January 2024 , 18:05
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An expert is warning women to be aware of four 'red flag' symptoms of cervical cancer and the importance of screening for the silent killer.
Cervical cancer is a disease that’s found anywhere in the cervix, which is the opening between the vagina and the womb. According to Cancer Research UK, there are approximately 3,200 people diagnosed with cervical cancer every year in the UK and sadly there are around 850 deaths from the disease annually.
In the UK, 99.8 per cent of cervical cancer cases are preventable, so, as with all cancers, the earlier you catch it, the better. It’s important to know the warning signs and symptoms so you can see a GP when necessary while for some people there are no signs and it is only through screening that the cancer is found.
Patient Claim Line’s litigation executive, Alexandra Penk, has outlined some major symptoms of cervical cancer ahead of its awareness week starting on January 22.
What is cervical cancer?
According to Cervical Cancer UK , cervical cancer is "when abnormal cells in the lining of the cervix grow in an uncontrolled way". The cervix is part of the female reproductive system - more specifically, the opening to the vagina from the womb, reported the Daily Record.
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What causes cervical cancer?
It is thought that cervical cancer isn't hereditary. According to the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 99.7% of cases are caused by persistent infections with a virus called high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV).
HPV is a very common virus transmitted through skin to skin contact in the genital area. According to Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust, around four in every five sexually active adults (80%) will be infected with some type of HPV in their lives. However, for the majority of women this will not result in cervical cancer. While HPV infection is common, cervical cancer is quite rare.
What are the red flag symptoms?
Expert Alexandra Penk said: "Symptoms of cervical cancer include pain or discomfort during sex, vaginal discharge and pain in the pelvis. Another common symptom that we hear about is unusual vaginal bleeding such as bleeding between periods, during or after sex and at any time after your menopause. Ultimately, not everyone diagnosed with cervical cancer will display symptoms, so it’s crucial to attend regular cervical screening assessments."
How can cervical cancer be prevented?
Attend cervical screening when invited by their health practitioner
Be aware of the symptoms of cervical cancer and seeking medical advice if experiencing any symptoms
Take up the HPV vaccination if aged 11-18 when offered
Talk to family and friends to ensure they know how they can reduce their risk and prevent cancer occurring
Know where to find support locally and further information which will be widely available at your GP and local family planning clinic
The expert added: "This is why it is so important to raise awareness of cervical cancer; so people can take the right steps to prevent it where possible."