- The WHO advocates for regular screenings, which are essential for detecting cervical changes early.
Have you undergone cervical cancer screening? January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, an opportune time for the World Health Organization (WHO) and its partners to shine a spotlight on the critical importance of cervical cancer prevention and the role of vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV).
Given that HPV is the leading cause of cervical cancer, this year's campaign emphasizes making HPV vaccines more accessible to everyone.
The WHO
advocates for regular screenings, which are essential for detecting cervical changes early.
Early detection not only protects against the progression to cancer but also allows for timely treatment, significantly improving outcomes.
The organization's ambitious goal to dramatically reduce cervical cancer rates by 2030 and eliminate it as a public health issue by 2120 is both commendable and necessary.
Despite these efforts, cervical cancer remains the sixth most common cancer among women in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region.
The WHO recommends the HPV vaccine, which has been proven to be safe and effective. However, many people still question its relevance, especially for those who are already sexually active.
The truth is that sexually active individuals can still benefit from the vaccine; it will protect against HPV types they haven't yet encountered. Yet, it is crucial to understand that the vaccine does not offer protection against HPV types already contracted.
This further underscores the importance of early vaccination, ideally between the ages of 9 to 14.
Cervical cancer doesn't develop overnight; it typically takes 15 to 20 years for an infected cervix to progress to cancer. This long timeline emphasizes the need for early detection and intervention.
Waiting too long can lead to devastating consequences. Some of the symptoms of Cervical Cancer include irregular bleeding, unusual vaginal discharge, persistent pelvic pain, weight loss, loss of appetite, vaginal discomfort and swelling of legs.
Take personal responsibility for your health and that of your loved ones. Regular screenings and vaccinations should not be optional; they should be seen as fundamental aspects of women's health.
This Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, commit to raising awareness, encouraging discussions, and making informed decisions about your health.
This ensures a future where cervical cancer is significantly diminished, if not eradicated, as a public health threat. It's time to take action—because awareness is just the first step in a long journey toward prevention and health.