Women face a wide range of unique health challenges — from menstrual cycles, birth control, and pregnancy to menopause. While many of these are routine, some health issues specifically affect women and require closer attention. Among these are certain cancers of the female reproductive system, including cancers of the breast, cervix, uterus, and ovary. Today, we’ll take a closer look at one of the more common cancers among women in Singapore—Cervical Cancer.
What is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer is the 10th most common cancer among Singaporean women. It begins in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus. One of the primary causes of cervical cancer is the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that many women contract. While there are many strains of HPV, types 16 and 18 are responsible for 70% of cervical cancers worldwide. In most cases, HPV infections resolve on their own, but in some instances, persistent infections with high-risk HPV strains can cause abnormal cell growth, leading to cervical cancer.
Risk Factors for Cervical Cancer
Several factors increase the risk of developing cervical cancer, including:
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) positive
- Weak immune system: Women with a compromised immune system due to chronic diseases, immune-suppressing drugs, or HIV are at higher risk.
- Sexual activity: Women who have never engaged in sexual activity are at low risk since HPV is transmitted through sexual contact.
Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
In its early stages, cervical cancer may present with non-specific symptoms. As the cancer progresses, women may experience:
- Vaginal bleeding after intercourse, between menstrual periods, or after menopause
- Lower abdominal pain
- Pain during intercourse
- Abnormal vaginal discharge, often with blood
Importance of Early Detection
As with many cancers, early detection of cervical cancer greatly improves the chances of successful treatment. Screening is a vital tool in catching cervical cancer early. Below is a table outlining the local recommendations for cervical cancer screening:
| Age | Pap Smear Test | HPV Test |
|---|---|---|
| 25-29 years old | Once every 3 years | – |
| 30 years old and above | – | HPV test every 5 years is more effective for assessing cancer risk. |
Prevention: The Role of HPV Vaccination
As the old saying goes, prevention is better than cure. Vaccines against HPV have been developed and are proven to be highly effective at preventing cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine is approved for females aged 9 to 26 years old and is most effective when given before a woman becomes sexually active. However, even women who are already sexually active can still benefit from the vaccine, as they may not have been exposed to all the HPV types covered by the vaccine.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices Matter
In addition to regular screening and vaccination, maintaining a healthy lifestyle plays a key role in reducing your risk of cervical cancer. Some important steps include:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Staying physically active
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low in fat
- Reducing or avoiding alcohol intake
Concerned About Cervical Cancer?
At Alliance Medical Centre (AMC), we are here to help you take control of your health. Whether you need to discuss screening options, learn more about the HPV vaccine, or address any concerns you may have, our experienced doctors are available to provide personalised advice.
Take the next step in protecting your health—schedule a consultation with AMC today and learn more about cervical cancer screening and prevention.
