- Cervical cancer is the 2nd most common cancer affecting Malaysian women , after breast cancer.
- In 2002, cervical cancer accounted for 12.9% of all female cancer in Malaysia.
- Virtually every women is at risk of cervical cancer, regardless of their age or lifestyle.
The cervix is the neck of the womb (uterus). It connects the body of the uterus to the vagina (birth canal). Cancer occurs when the cells of the cervix become abnormal and grow out of control. The cancer can spread to others parts of the body.
But did you also know....Cervical cancer is preventable.
All of us have a role to play in saving women from cervical cancer.
HPV (HUMAN PAPILLOMAVIRUS)
A family of more than 100 viruses that very common.
Some types of HPV are associated with certain types of cancer. These called ''high risk'' cancer - causing HPVs1.
Relation between HPV and Cervical Cancer
Most HPV infections occur without any symptoms and will go away without any treatment over the course of a few months.
Infection by the ''high-risk'' (cancer-causing) HPV is necessary for the development of cervical cancer. These infections are asymptomatic and majority will resolve without any need for treatment.
However, in some cases, the infection can persist, leading to the risk of progresssion to cervical cancer. This process can take more than 10 years.
Therefore it is important to be protected against the ''high-risk'' (cancer-causing) HPVs.
How is HPV transmitted ?
Is a common virus that is transmitted through genital skin to skin contact so it can affect virtually any women, regardless of her age or lifestyle. Sexual intercourse is not necessary to become infected.
It is estimated that about 4 out of 5 sexually active women will have an HPV infection during their lifetime, even if they've only had 1 or 2 sexual partners.
Will women still be at risk of HPV infection if already getting married.?
The risk of HPV infection starts from the first sexual encounter and lasts throughout a woman's life. It is estimated that up to 80% of women will acquire a genital HPV infection in their lifetime irrespective of their age or lifestyle.
Do condoms reduce the risk of HPV infection?
Condoms reduce the risk but are not fully protective.
Throughout her life every women is at risk from the virus that causes cervical cancer.
PAP SMEAR
Is a quick and simple test to find abnormal cells at the surface of the cervix and sent to a laboratory where they are tested for changes.
Can cervical cancer be prevented?
Until recently the only way to prevent cervical cancer was regular PAP SMEAR testing to look for early signs of the disease.
Vaccination is now available to prevent HPV infection and cervical cancer.
TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR ABOUT PROTECTING YOURSELF AND YOUR LOVED ONES
''PROTECT YOUR WORLD
HELP OUT CERVICAL CANCER''
