Cervical Cancer, CARE2CURE

Overview

What is cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers thanks to HPV vaccination and routine Pap smears. Yet it remains the second-most common cancer among Indian women, claiming over 75,000 lives annually. With timely screening and HPV vaccination for girls aged 9–14, the disease can be virtually eliminated in a generation.

⚠ Risk Factors

HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection, the primary cause
Early onset of sexual activity
Multiple sexual partners (or a partner with multiple partners)
Long-term use of oral contraceptives (5+ years)
Smoking
Weakened immune system (HIV, immunosuppressive drugs)
Multiple full-term pregnancies
Family history of cervical cancer

🔍 Symptoms to Watch

Abnormal vaginal bleeding (between periods, after sex, or after menopause)
Heavier or longer menstrual periods than usual
Watery or bloody vaginal discharge with a foul smell
Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse
Pain in the lower back or legs
Unexplained weight loss or fatigue (advanced stages)

🩺 Screening & Detection

HPV vaccine: Recommended for girls aged 9–14 (most effective before exposure). Catch-up vaccination up to 26.
Pap smear (Pap test): Every 3 years from age 25 to 65.
HPV DNA test: Every 5 years from age 30 onwards.
Visual inspection (VIA): A low-cost screening method widely used in Indian government programmes.

🛡 Prevention

Get the HPV vaccine, for girls and boys, ideally aged 9–14
Get regular Pap smears from age 25 onwards
Practice safe sex, limit partners, use condoms
Don't smoke
Maintain good genital hygiene
Treat any pre-cancerous changes promptly

When should you see a doctor?

Any unusual vaginal bleeding, especially after intercourse or between periods, needs to be checked. Skipped your last Pap smear? Book one this week. The HPV vaccine is one of the best gifts you can give a young person, it's safe, effective, and saves lives.

Talk to Care2Cure →

A note: The information on this page is for awareness and education only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have concerns about your health or any symptoms, please consult a qualified oncologist or your primary doctor. Care2Cure is happy to help you connect with a specialist, just email care2cureorg@gmail.com.