Why Screening For Cervical Cancer Remains Crucial

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix, the cervix is a hollow cavity that connects the lower part of a woman’s uterus to her vagina.

Cervical cancer ranks fourth among most common cancers found in women. In 2018, an estimated 570,000 women were diagnosed with cervical cancer worldwide and about 311,000 (55%) of the women died from the disease according to WHO. The statistics alone emphasizes the need for attention to be paid to prevention by undergoing screening tests for early detection and treatment.

Despite the facts above, recent study findings showed that cervical cancer screening rates declined between ages 45 and 65, even as experts advise that women be screened throughout their lifetime.

A number of recommended options exist for screening women of ages 30 to 65. This includes cervical cytology every 3 years, Human papilloma virus (HPV) testing every 5 years, or HPV testing together with cytology every 5 years. Screening is not of much use before age 25, as the rate of disease is low and it is also not recommended in women older than 60 years if they have a history of negative results.

It is important to note that cervical cancer is not a death sentence and early detection via screening helps begin prompt treatment and save our women from avoidable deaths due to this disease.

So encourage that sister, mother, aunt or friend to get screening done today, you might just be saving a life. Thank you.

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