Don’t Wait for a Wake-Up Call: Prevent Cervical Cancer Now

Did you know cervical cancer is one of the few cancers that we can almost completely prevent? Yet, it remains the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide, with over 350,000 deaths in 2022. Here in Malaysia, cervical cancer ranks as the third most common cancer among women. Scary? Yes. But the good news is that it’s preventable with the right tools and awareness.

Cervical cancer prevention is all about taking the right steps: getting the HPV vaccine and having regular Pap tests to detect abnormal cell changes early. These simple actions can help protect you and the women in your life.

So….What Exactly Is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer begins on the surface of the cervix, the lower, narrow end of the uterus that connects the uterus to the vagina. It develops when cells in the cervix undergo abnormal changes, often triggered by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). Over time, these precancerous cells may progress to cancer if left untreated.

What You SHOULD Know About Cervical Cancer

1. HPV is the LEADING Cause of Cervical Cancer
   Most cervical cancer cases are caused by HPV, a sexually transmitted infection (STI) spread through anal, oral, or vaginal contact. While the immune system often clears HPV naturally, certain high-risk strains can linger and cause abnormal changes in cervical cells, which may progress to cancer if left untreated.
2. Only CERTAIN Strains of HPV Cause Cancer
   HPV is a group of over 150 related viruses, but only about a dozen high-risk types are linked to cancer. Two strains, HPV 16 and 18, are responsible for approximately 70% of all cervical cancers. While some HPV types cause warts, others have no symptoms at all. Understanding the difference between high-risk and low-risk HPV types is crucial in managing your health.
3. Most Cervical Cancer Cases Are PREVENTABLE
   Cervical cancer often develops gradually over many years, starting with abnormal changes in cervical cells. Prevention focuses on addressing the main cause, HPV infections, through vaccination and early detection:
   • HPV Vaccination: The HPV vaccine protects against high-risk HPV types that cause most cervical cancers. It is recommended for males and females aged 9 to 26 and is given in two or three doses over six months.
   • HPV DNA Test: HPV-DNA testing identifies high-risk HPV strains that cause nearly all cervical cancers. Unlike visual tests, it gives clear, accurate results without room for interpretation.
   • Routine Pap Tests: Regular Pap tests help detect precancerous changes in cervical cells, allowing for early treatment before cancer has the chance to develop.

4. A Pelvic Exam Is NOT the Same as a Pap Test
   If you’re assuming your last pelvic exam included cervical cancer screening, think again. Many women mistakenly believe that a pelvic exam automatically includes cervical cancer screening. While a pelvic exam assesses overall reproductive health, a Pap test specifically screens for cervical abnormalities. Regular gynaecological visits are crucial, even if a Pap test isn’t conducted at every appointment.
5. Lifestyle Factors Can LOWER Your Risk
   Certain lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of cervical cancer:
   • Ditch The Cigarettes: Smoking weakens the immune system, making it harder to fight HPV infections. Tobacco by-products can also damage cervical cells.
   • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Long-term use of oral contraceptives and obesity are associated with an increased risk of cervical cancer.
   • Play It Safe: Consistent and correct use of latex condoms effectively isolates HPV infection, reducing the risk of transmission and HPV-associated diseases.

Symptoms and Stages of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer often shows no symptoms in its early stages, and not everyone diagnosed will experience warning signs. However, as it progresses, symptoms to watch out for include:

• Vaginal bleeding after intercourse, between periods, or after menopause.
• Heavier and longer menstrual bleeding than usual.
• Watery, bloody vaginal discharge with a foul odor.
• Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse.

Prevention Starts With Awareness, Action, and Genetic Insights

Preventing cervical cancer starts with using the right tools to reduce your risk. The HPV vaccine and regular Pap tests are key in protecting against high risk HPV strains and detecting abnormal cell changes early. It is also important to know your body—recognise what feels normal, and do not hesitate to seek professional advice if something seems off.

While cervical cancer itself is not typically linked to inherited genetics, some genetic mutations may increase the risk of cancers that can occur alongside it. A family history of cervical cancer or other gynaecologic cancers might suggest an inherited predisposition, making genetic testing and counselling valuable tools for understanding and managing these risks.

Cancer Research Malaysia (CRMY) has been a leader in genetic counselling and testing research for over a decade. With the help of genetic counsellors, families can uncover patterns of cancer risk and explore options for early prevention and treatment. This adds another layer of proactive care, empowering individuals to make informed health decisions.

By combining vaccination, regular screenings, and genetic insights, we can create a stronger defence against cervical cancer. Each step works together to amplify prevention efforts. Take control of your health—schedule your HPV vaccine or Pap test today. Together, we can reduce the impact of cervical cancer.

If you would like to know more about how Genetics Counselling and Testing can empower your lives, you may visit www.genetix.my

Genetix is a wholly owned subsidiary by CRMY. We offer comprehensive genetic services, including expert genetic counselling and advanced diagnostic tests for genetic conditions.

You may also contact us at 012-374 7426 or 6012-264 3894 for further inquiries.