Every year, over 1200 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and almost 4000 succumb to the disease. This alarming number shows the lack of awareness about cervical diseases and health care for women. Most of the times, women ignore their sexual health which can lead to major complications. With the advancement of medical technology, it is now possible to treat major ailments if diagnosed on time. Basic lifestyle habits can increase the risk for several diseases, which, when understood, can help prevent them. The following are the major risk factors which can lead to the development of cervical cancer:

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)

A group of about 150 related viruses, HPV is one of the leading factors causing cervical cancer and one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases. It can cause the formation of warts around the genital area. This incurable virus is the cause for development of cancerous cells in the cervix.

Smoking

The ill-effects of tobacco have been related repeatedly to cancer. The cervix mucus of women who smoke often contain the by-products of nicotine that are responsible for damaging the DNA of the cells in the cervix, causing cancer.

Birth Control Pills

Various studies have proven that taking birth control over a prolonged period can increase the risk of cervical cancer. The hormonal imbalance caused by the pills can cause abnormalities in the uterine wall that takes up to 10 years to go back to normal.

Excess Weight

Obesity has been listed as the cause of many diseases, cervical cancer topping the list. Tumours can develop easily due to excess weight and unhealthy eating habits.

Heredity

The chances of developing cervical cancer increase if someone in your family already suffers from the disease. The structure of the DNA of such a woman prevents her from fighting off HPV which can make her susceptible to development of adenocarcinoma.

Reducing the risk factors can go a long way in preventing cervical diseases. Furthermore, it is essential for every woman to get a pap-smear done regularly after the age of 21 to keep a check on any abnormalities.

Why It's High Time Women Took Charge Of Their Cervical Health

Despite being a perfectly preventable disease, thousands of women die of cervical cancer every year. Early detection makes it possible to establish a cure. Medical advancements have made it possible to develop vaccines against cervical cancer. However, cervical health is an issue hardly discussed in the daylight. The causes of cervical cancer are mostly related to our lifestyle. Making minor changes in the same can help maintain the cervical health and ensure a long life for women.

Prevention

Reducing the risk factors can help prevent the disease. While some factors like hereditary cannot be avoided, the following changes can help dodge the bullet drastically

Sexual Behaviour

A major cause of cervical cancer has been noted to be the human papilloma virus that is transmitted sexually. Delaying the first sexual intercourse has been noted to reduce the risk of cancer. Limiting the number of sexual partners and using a condom to avoid STDs can go a long way in its prevention.

Diet

Studies have shown that a plant-based diet helps build a strong immune system against fighting cervical diseases. Including greens like spinach, lettuce, and broccoli, which are abundant in antioxidants, are great additions to your daily meals. Vitamin B rich foods like orange, strawberries, avocados have been proven to help prevent HPV virus.

Nicotine Intake

Smoking tobacco has been listed as a major cause of cancer repeatedly. It also proves to be a hindrance in the immune system to fight the disease. Quitting smoking can cut down the risk of cancer by almost half.

Screening

Even though we do our best to prevent the disease, sometimes our body fails us. It is essential we keep a check on it as early detection can help cure the cancer of the cervix. The following tests can help with the detection process and maintain a healthy body:

• HPV Test
• Pap Test
• Bimanual Pelvic Exam

Consult your gynaecologist and take a step towards a healthy future!