Health

3 Symptoms Women Should Never Ignore That Could Indicate Cervical Cancer

January, 16, 2025-03:27

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3 Symptoms Women Should Never Ignore That Could Indicate Cervical Cancer

Experts are urging women to stay vigilant for three subtle red-flag symptoms of one of the deadliest cancers—cervical cancer—emphasizing that early detection significantly boosts survival chances. In Britain, cervical cancer claims the lives of approximately two women each day. The disease, which tragically took the life of TV personality Jade Goody at just 27, is often referred to as a "silent killer" because its symptoms can easily be mistaken for less severe conditions like heavy periods or fatigue.

Spotting the warning signs early is crucial, as the five-year survival rate is approximately 95% when the disease is diagnosed in its initial stages. However, this rate plummets to just 15% when the cancer is detected in advanced stages, after it has spread to other parts of the body. Angela Sarmiento Bentancourt, a medical expert at healthcare technology company myTomorrows, which specializes in helping patients access clinical trials, highlighted three key symptoms to watch for:
1. Unusual Bleeding: This includes heavier periods, bleeding between periods, after sex, or post-menopause.
2. Pain: Discomfort during sex, or persistent pain in the lower back, pelvis, or lower abdomen.
3. Fatigue: The heavier and more frequent bleeding can often lead to a noticeable increase in exhaustion.
Being aware of these symptoms and seeking medical advice promptly can make a life-saving difference.

Symptoms of cervical cancer to watch for include unusual vaginal bleeding, pain during sex, and persistent lower back or pelvic pain. While lower back and pelvic pain are often associated with menstruation, they could also indicate cervical cancer. This discomfort may occur when a tumor presses on bones, nerves, or nearby organs. Unusual bleeding is another key symptom, occurring because cancerous tissues and their fragile blood vessels can bleed easily. As the cancer progresses, it may also damage surrounding healthy tissue, leading to further bleeding.

Pain during sex may result from cervical inflammation caused by a tumor. The inflammation creates pressure and sensitivity, making intercourse uncomfortable or painful. Medical expert Angela Sarmiento Bentancourt emphasizes the importance of seeking medical advice for these symptoms. Prompt evaluation allows doctors to perform tests and rule out cervical cancer or identify it early, when treatment is most effective.

That said, abnormal bleeding is often caused by less serious issues, such as hormone imbalances (e.g., polycystic ovary syndrome), polyps, fibroids, sexually transmitted infections, or reproductive conditions like endometriosis. Similarly, pain during sex could stem from infections, menopause, genital irritation, or allergic reactions to soaps or condoms. Seeking professional evaluation for these symptoms is essential to address potential concerns and ensure appropriate care. In the UK, all women and individuals with a cervix aged 25 to 64 are invited for regular cervical screenings, which are the primary method for diagnosing cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer is the 14th most common cancer among females in the UK, affecting approximately 3,300 people annually. Fortunately, comprehensive screening programs are available in the UK, helping to detect the disease early. However, on a global scale, cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women, with the highest incidence and mortality rates seen in low- and middle-income countries.

In roughly 99 percent of cases, cervical cancer is linked to an infection caused by high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). There are over 100 known types of HPV, with around 30 specifically affecting the genital area. Symptoms of HPV infection often remain undetected, as they can take years to manifest. In most cases, the infection resolves naturally without the need for treatment.

In some cases, HPV infections can cause abnormal growth of genital tissues, which may lead to cervical cancer over several years. Ms. Sarmiento Bentancourt highlights that using condoms can reduce the risk of contracting HPV. However, since condoms do not cover all the genital skin, they do not offer complete protection against the virus.

There is an effective vaccine for HPV, which provides over 80 percent protection and is widely available in developed countries. The vaccine is administered in two doses, typically given 12 months apart, and is recommended for children aged 11 to 12.

For individuals who miss this age window, a three-dose vaccination is available for those aged 15 to 26. In England and Wales, the vaccine has been offered to girls since September 2008 and was expanded to include boys in 2019. Additionally, all women and individuals with a cervix in the UK aged 25 to 64 are invited for regular cervical screenings, which remain the primary method for detecting cervical cancer.