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January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer when detected early and managed appropriately. With advancements in screening and vaccination, it is now possible to significantly reduce its impact globally.

 

What is the Standard Practice for Cervical Screening?

 

Cervical cancer screening has evolved, with HPV testing now recommended as the preferred method in many countries due to its effectiveness in identifying high-risk HPV strains:

  • HPV Testing:Recommended every 5 years for individuals aged 25–65. It detects the virus that can lead to cervical cancer, often before cellular changes occur.
  • Pap Smear (Cytology):Primarily used for follow-up after a positive HPV result or in areas where HPV testing is not yet widely available.
  • Co-Testing:HPV testing combined with Pap smears is an option in some regions every 5 years.

 

Specific screening intervals and methods may vary depending on local guidelines, but HPV testing is becoming the global standard due to its superior accuracy.

 

Steps to Reduce the Risk of Cervical Cancer

 

  1. Attend Regular Cervical Screening – Cervical screening is a crucial tool for identifying changes in cervical cells that may require further attention. Following your country’s recommendations for screening is essential:
  • HPV Testing (preferred):Every 5 years for individuals aged 25–65.
  • Pap Smear (where applicable):Typically recommended every 3 years if HPV testing is unavailable.
  • Co-Testing:Every 5 years for those following this approach.

 

  1. Get Vaccinated Against HPV – The HPV vaccine provides protection against the most common high-risk HPV strains associated with cervical cancer:
  • Routine Vaccination:Recommended for individuals aged 9–14.
  • Catch-Up Vaccination:Often available up to age 26 and, in some cases, up to age 45 based on individual circumstances.

Vaccination is a highly effective preventive measure, but regular cervical screening remains necessary even after vaccination.

 

  1. Be Aware of Potential Symptoms – Cervical cancer often does not present symptoms in its early stages. However, it is important to be aware of:
  • Unusual vaginal bleeding (after intercourse, between periods, or post-menopause).
  • Persistent abnormal vaginal discharge.
  • Discomfort or pain during intercourse.

If any of these symptoms occur, consult our healthcare professionals for evaluation.

 

  1. Encourage Open Conversations – Addressing cervical health openly can reduce stigma, improve awareness, and encourage more individuals to prioritize screening and vaccination. Sharing accurate inform January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month!

 

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer when detected early and managed appropriately. With advancements in screening and vaccination, it is now possible to significantly reduce its impact globally.

 

Take Action: Cervical cancer prevention is a combination of effective screening, vaccination, and awareness. By staying informed and proactive, you can play a role in reducing its impact.

 

Take action today:

  • Schedule your cervical screening with us.
  • Get vaccinated and encourage others to stay up-to-date with screening and vaccination.
  • Share credible information about prevention and early detection.

 

Together, we can make significant progress in reducing cervical cancer worldwide.

 

At Health Call Clinic, we are committed to your cervical health. We offer a comprehensive range of services, which provides protection against nine strains of HPV for broader coverage including:

  • HPV testing
  • Pap smears, and the
  • 9-valent Gardasil vaccine

 

Dr. Hajra Adil, Consultant Family Medicine is Certified in Menopause Care by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) and the British Menopause Society. She is also an Associate Member of the Faculty of Sexual Reproductive Healthcare (FSRH) UK, ensuring expert care tailored to your needs

 

 

 

 

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Health Call Clinic believes in social responsibility and giving back to society. If you think you cannot afford treatment, please contact us and we will work out a solution together to help you find the proper care you need It is the patients’ right to be seen by the best if they want the best. Our senior doctors and experts do not delegate their responsibilities.