The role of screening and vaccination in the prevention of cervical cancer Photo source – medicover.ro
Medicover specialists emphasize the importance of HPV vaccination, regular screening and regular gynecological check-ups for the early detection of cervical cancer.
January is cervical cancer awareness month, which is why at Medicover we are reminding you how important HPV vaccination, screening and diagnosing the disease at an early stage are.
In Romania, the incidence of cervical cancer and the associated mortality are among the highest in Europe, the disease frequently affecting, in particular, women between the ages of 35 and 44.
In over 90% of cases, cervical cancer is caused by infection with the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Most strains clear up naturally, but there are strains that can lead to cervical cancer. Among those with a very high oncogenic risk are HPV 16 and 18, responsible for more than half of cervical cancer cases.
HPV infection is sexually transmitted and is mostly asymptomatic, with the immune system clearing the virus within 1–2 years. However, there are situations in which the virus persists for years in the cells, initially causing precancerous lesions that, over time, can evolve into cancer. In general, the evolution is slow, during 10–15 years, being influenced by factors such as family history of cancer, smoking, decreased immunity or lack of regular medical check-ups.
At Medicover we know that prevention means trust, health and well-being. The annual visit to the gynecologist, or whenever needed, allows early detection of precancerous lesions and their treatment. Carrying out the HPV test and the Pap test, at the intervals recommended by the gynecologist, is essential for early detection.
Gynecologists in the Medicover network recommend anti-HPV vaccination, including in adulthood, as an effective measure to reduce the risk of infection with oncogenic strains.
The success of cervical cancer treatment largely depends on the stage of the disease at the time of diagnosis, especially when it is discovered at an early stage. At the Medicover Pipera and Băneasa hospitals in Bucharest, as well as at the Medicover hospitals in Cluj and Oradea, mixed teams of surgeons, oncologists and gynecologists provide effective treatments adapted to each case.
Medicover specialists recommend supporting the immune system through healthy choices. Quitting harmful habits such as smoking, eating a balanced diet and controlling chronic diseases help the body eliminate the virus. Condom use also decreases the risk of transmission, even if it does not eliminate it completely. Prompt medical attention for any abnormal bleeding, pain, or genital changes is important for early intervention and cancer prevention.
For details or appointments, visit the Medicover website!
Useful links:
http://www.medicover.ro/
https://www.medicover.ro/despre-sanatate/cancer-de-col-uterin-cauze-diagnostic-si-tratament,1195,n,295
Article sponsored by Medicover
