India has the highest incidence rate of cervical cancer in the world, accounting for nearly a quarter of the cases recorded globally. It is also the second most common cancer in India. Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that affects the cells of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It is the second most frequent cancer among women aged 15-44 in India.  

One of the main causes of cervical cancer is infection from a common virus called human papillomavirus (HPV). Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is closely associated with cervical cancer, with about 95 per cent of cases involving HPV. Long-term infection with certain types of HPV, such as HPV-16 and HPV-18, can transform normal cervical cells into abnormal ones, leading to the development of cervical cancer. 

However, besides this, health experts say, one’s lifestyle plays a key role in the likelihood of developing cancer.   

With the ongoing Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, we spoke to two health experts – Dr Yogesh Kulkarni, surgical oncology, head-gynecologic oncology, robotic surgeon, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital and Dr Sravanthi Nuthalapati, consultant gynaecology oncology, Karkinos Healthcare, dissect the role of adopting a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of cervical cancer.   

What are the symptoms?
“Cervical cancer usually doesn’t cause any symptoms in the early stages. However, as the disease progresses, various signs and symptoms can occur,” says Nuthalapati.

These include: 
1. Abnormal vaginal bleeding:
This can occur after intercourse, between periods, or after menopause. Abnormal vaginal bleeding is a common symptom. It may also present as heavier or longer menstrual bleeding than usual. 

2. Pelvic or back pain:
Discomfort or pain in the pelvic region or back can occur, which may be noticeable during or after sexual intercourse. 

3. Unusual vaginal discharge:
Changes in vaginal discharge, which might be watery, bloody, heavy, and have a foul odour, is a sign of cervical cancer. 

4. Pain during intercourse:
Experiencing pain during sexual activity is another symptom that can be associated with cervical cancer. 

5.  Abdominal pain and fatigue:
Pain in the abdomen and a general feeling of tiredness may also be symptoms of cervical cancer. However, this may also be caused by various other conditions. 

6. Swelling of the legs:
There may be swelling in the legs in cases of advanced cervical cancer which spreads to the local lymph nodes and blocks the drainage of lymph leading to swelling.