Cervical Cancer is the second most common cancer in India after breast cancer.
What is cervical cancer?
Lower part of uterus or womb is called as cervix. Any cancer starting in cervix is called as cervical cancer.
Can cervical cancer be prevented?
Fortunately, there is a vaccine available for prevention of cervical cancer. This vaccine should be given to young girls in the age group of 10-12 years in two doses. If give after the age of 18 years, the same vaacine may be given in three doses.
What are the common symptoms of cervical cancer?
Inter menstrual bleeding, excessive bleeding, bleeding from vagina after sex, vaginal discharge are some of the common symptoms of cervical cancer.
Can we diagnose cervical cancer in early/starting stages of cancer?
Cervical cancer can be diagnosed in early stages by doing a simple test called PAP smear. This test is routinely done by all genealogists. It should be done once every year after the age of 40 years.
Can cervical cancer be cured?
Yes, cure rates for cervical cancer are very high especially when detected in early stages.
What is the main stay of treatment for cervical cancer?
Main treatment for cervical cancer is radiation and chemotherapy commonly called as CTRT followed by brachytherapy/internal radiation therapy.
How much time is required for complete course of radiation therapy in cervical cancer?
Complete course of radiation therapy takes 7-8 weeks.
What are the advanced techniques of radiation therapy for treatment of cervical cancer?
IGRT and VMAT/Rapid arc are advanced techniques of radiation therapy for treatment of cervical cancer which are associated with cure rates and much reduced side effects. CT and MRI based brachytherapy is equally important in improving cure rates of cervical cancer.
What are the side effects faced during radiation therapy for cervical cancer?
Patients might experience mild nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, burning in urine/stool while on radiation therapy. With modern radiation therapy techniques side effects of cervical cancer are much reduced.
How can one reduce these side effects of radiation therapy?
Following certain precautions like being physically active, eating home cooked light meals and maintaining adequate hydration one can significantly reduce side effects of radiation therapy for cervical cancer treatment.