Cervical Cancer remains one of the most common cancers among women in Thailand. However, it is also one of the few types of cancer that is nearly 100% preventable if detected early in its pre-cancerous stages. The key to prevention is understanding the primary cause: infection with high-risk strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
The Root Cause: What is HPV?
- Over 99% of cervical cancer cases are caused by persistent infection with high-risk HPV, specifically strains 16 and 18.
- Transmission: HPV is spread through skin-to-skin contact, primarily during sexual activity (including oral and anal contact).
- A Silent Carrier: Most people with HPV show no symptoms, meaning they can unknowingly pass the virus to others.
- Disease Progression: It typically takes 10 to 20 years for a persistent high-risk HPV infection to transform normal cervical cells into abnormal ones, and eventually into cancer.
Warning Signs Often Overlooked
In the early stages, cervical cancer rarely shows obvious symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, the following signs may appear:
- Abnormal Bleeding: Bleeding after intercourse, spotting between periods, or bleeding after menopause.
- Unusual Discharge: Increased discharge that may have a foul odor or contain traces of blood.
- Pelvic Pain: Persistent pain in the lower abdomen or pain during intercourse.
- Advanced Symptoms: Leg swelling or blood in the urine or stool (if the cancer spreads to nearby organs).
Guidelines for Prevention: Staying Vigilant
Cervical cancer can be prevented through two main methods that should be used together:
1. HPV Vaccination (Primary Prevention)
- The most effective way to prevent infection. It is recommended for children (both boys and girls) as young as 9 years old.
- Women aged 15–45 can still receive the vaccine to protect against high-risk strains they have not yet encountered.
2. Regular Screening (Secondary Prevention)
- Recommendation: All women who are sexually active or over the age of 25 should undergo regular screening, even if they have already been vaccinated.
- Detecting abnormal cell changes early allows for highly successful, life-saving treatment before cancer develops.
