Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer affecting young women around the world. According to The World Health Organization, there were 570,000 new cases in 2018 representing 6.6% of all female cancers In the United States. Cervical cancer is caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).
Causes
When healthy cells acquire a genetic change, in a certain way it turns into abnormal cells.
While there are healthy cells that grow at a set rate, at a point, they are dying at a set time.
Unfortunately, cancer cells grow and multiply out of control; and unlike the healthy cells, they don’t die. When this happens, the abnormal cells collect to form a mass. The cancer cells continue to invade nearby tissues. This potentially leads to spreading in other places in the body.
Although the exact cause of cervical cancer is still unclear, research has proven that HPV plays a role. HPV is actually quite common. But many women with the virus never develop cervical cancer. This means there are other factors that play into the development of cervical cancer. This includes, but is not limited to, how you live life and your choices in how you treat your body.
Symptoms and signs
Initial stages may not elicit any symptoms, but as the disease progresses, signs and symptoms may include the following:
- Vaginal bleeding after intercourse, this includes between periods or after menopause
- Bloody vaginal discharge, could be watery or heavy, possibly with a foul odor
- Experience pelvic pain, including pain during intercourse
Should you experience any signs or symptoms that cause you to worry, it’s time to schedule an appointment with NVSCC.
Prevention
Research that shows you can do the following to reduce your risk of cervical cancer:
- Receive an HPV vaccination
- Schedule routine Pap tests
- Practice safe sex
- Don’t smoke
The majority of women who get cervical cancer have not had a pap smear in several years. If you are experiencing abnormal bleeding, it is best to see your doctor for evaluation.
Cervical Cancer Treatment in Las Vegas, NV
Consults a specialist as soon as you identify you have symptoms of cervical cancer. The exact treatment plan will vary from patient to patient but they will recommend surgery or radiation. Both are equally effective when cervical cancer is diagnosed at an early stage. Most women opt for surgery due to fewer long-term side effects.
For more advanced cases of cervical cancer, radiation and chemotherapy are typically prescribed. A radical hysterectomy is the operation for early-stage cervical cancer and is very different than a typical hysterectomy performed for non-cancerous conditions. NVSCC believes every patient deserves the most personalized treatment plan for them. We recognize that no two patients are the same.
Schedule a Cervical Cancer Screening Today
At Nevada Surgery and Cancer Care, we perform this extensive cancer procedure robotically, so even women with this complex problem can enjoy the benefits of minimally invasive surgery. Please contact us today to schedule an appointment for our services today.