Cervical Cancer: What You Need to Know—From Diagnosis to Recovery

WORDS DR KHAIRIAH SEMAN

FEATURED EXPERT DR KHAIRIAH SEMAN Consultant Obstetrician & Gynecologist Columbia Asia Hospital Klang

ALARMING STATISTICS

Cervical cancer often goes unnoticed in its early stages, but its impact is far-reaching and potentially life-threatening.

According to the HPV Information Centre, cervical cancer ranks as the fourth most common cancer among women in Malaysia, with approximately 1,740 new cases and 991 deaths reported annually.

Globally, cervical cancer is also the fourth most common cancer in women, with an estimated 604,000 new cases and 342,000 deaths in 2020, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

These alarming numbers underscore the importance of awareness campaigns. Educating women about preventive measures, risk factors, symptoms, and screening methods can empower them to take proactive steps toward early detection and treatment.

HOW CERVICAL CANCER IS DIAGNOSED

Several diagnostic tests can help identify cervical cancer. Not all tests are suitable for everyone, but here are the most common ones:

• Pelvic examination. Checks for unusual changes in the vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus, and ovaries.
• Pap smear test. Cells from the cervix is scraped for testing.
• HPV typing test. Detects high-risk HPV strains, such as HPV16 and HPV18, which are often linked to cervical cancer.
• Colposcopy. Uses a colposcope to magnify cervical and vaginal cells, aiding in biopsy accuracy.
• Biopsy. Some biopsy methods, like LEEP and conization, may also serve as treatments for early-stage cancer.
  • Endocervical curettage (ECC). Examines tissue from the cervix opening.
  • Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP). Removes tissue with an electrical wire loop.
  • Conization. Extracts a cone-shaped tissue sample for examination.

CERVICAL CANCER STAGES

Once cervical cancer is diagnosed, staging determines its location and spread. Stages range from Stage 1 (cancer is confined to the cervix) to Stage 4 (cancer has spread to other body parts).

Accurate staging guides treatment planning and prognosis.

TREATMENT OPTIONS: WHAT TO EXPECT

Treatment depends on factors like cancer stage, age, health, and family planning goals. Common options include:

• Surgery. Often recommended for localized tumours. A hysterectomy—removal of the uterus and cervix—is the main surgical option. Trachelectomy–surgical removal of just the cervix—may be considered for young women wishing to preserve their fertility.
• Chemotherapy. Medications are used to kill or slow cancer cell growth. Often combined with radiation therapy (chemoradiation).
• Radiation therapy. Targets cancer cells with X-rays, either alone or with chemotherapy.

LIFE AFTER TREATMENT: STAYING VIGILANT

Follow-up care is crucial to monitor for recurrence, which can happen locally, regionally, or in distant parts of the body.

Regular pelvic exams and smear tests are part of post-treatment care.

In cases of recurrence, new testing guides further treatment planning.

WELLNESS TIPS FOR THRIVING THROUGH CANCER

Navigating cancer challenges involves a holistic approach to well-being.

• Healthy diet. Focus on fruits, vegetables, and minimally processed foods to support recovery.
• Regular exercise. Boosts energy, fitness, and emotional well-being while reducing fatigue.
• Quit smoking. Enhances healing and reduces cancer risks.
• Prevent infections. Practice hand hygiene, avoid crowds, and stay vaccinated.
• Complementary therapies. Consider acupuncture, massage, or yoga to improve quality of life (note: these do not cure cancer).
• Seek support. Join peer groups like the National Cancer Society Malaysia (call 1-800-88-1000) for emotional and practical help.