We must break the silence on the silent killer that cervical cancer is
Cervical cancer, often dubbed “the silent killer," lurks in the shadows, claiming the lives of thousands of women every year. Its impact roils the lives of women and their families, leaving emotional, social and financial scars. Understanding these far-reaching consequences is crucial for raising awareness, mobilizing support and ensuring holistic care.
According to World Health Organization (WHO), cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women, globally, with an estimated 604,000 new cases and 342,000 deaths in 2020. Lack of access to healthcare facilities and financial constraints often prevent women, particularly in rural areas, from seeking timely screening and treatment. Investing in healthcare infrastructure, raising awareness of subsidized programmes and promoting affordable screening options are crucial to bridge this gap.
According to a study published in The Lancet, 23% of global deaths in 2020 due to cervical cancer were from India. Sadly, estimates show that a mere 1% of women are being screened for it in India, a far cry from the WHO’s recommendation that at least 70% women should get tested. The primary culprit behind cervical cancer is the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection.
Persistent infection with certain high-risk HPV strains can trigger abnormal cell growth in the cervix, which, if left unchecked, can progress to cancer. The insidious nature of cervical cancer lies in its often asymptomatic nature, making early detection crucial. While the silent nature of cervical cancer can be daunting, the good news is that treatment options exist and their effectiveness depends heavily on the stage at which the cancer is diagnosed.
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