Cervical Cancer Prevention Guide: 5 Simple Lifestyle Habits That May Lower Your Risk

Each year, more than half a million women are diagnosed with cervical cancer, leading to over 3,00,000 deaths globally. The majority of cases are caused by high-risk strains of the Human papilloma virus. Around 90% of cervical cancers occur in low- and middle-income countries without organized screening or HPV vaccination programs. In higher income nations, the incidence and mortality rates for cervical cancer have significantly decreased due to formal screening programs introduced over the last three decades.

Treatment options depend on the extent of the disease at diagnosis as well as local resources available and may include radical hysterectomy or chemo radiation, or a combination thereof; for individuals with low-risk early-stage disease, conservative fertility-preserving surgical procedures are now standard practice.

Advances in radiotherapy technology like intensity-modulated radiotherapy have reduced treatment-related side effects for women with locally advanced disease. Prognosis remains poor for those with metastatic or recurrent disease.

ROLE OF LIFESTYLE HABITS IN PREVENTING CERVICAL CANCER:

Human papillomavirus strains that carry a high risk of infection is the main cause of cervical cancer. Adopting healthy lifestyle habits and behaviours can contribute to lowering the risk of developing cervical cancer:

1. Practice Safe Sex: Use condoms consistently and correctly during sexual activity to reduce the risk of HPV transmission. Limit the number of sexual partners, as having multiple partners increases the likelihood of exposure to HPV. Additionally, consider getting vaccinated against HPV for further protection.
2. Receive HPV Vaccination: Vaccines have been shown to be successful in preventing the transmission of specific high-risk strains of HPV. It is advisable for both males and females to receive these vaccines, as they offer the best protection when administered before becoming sexually active.
3. Schedule regular cervical cancer screenings, like Pap smears and HPV tests, as recommended by healthcare professionals. Early detection can lead to timely intervention and prevention of cancer development.
4. Cease Smoking: The act of smoking is linked to a higher likelihood of developing cervical cancer. The detrimental substances present in tobacco have the potential to harm cervical cells and elevate vulnerability to HPV infection. Stopping smoking not only diminishes the chance of developing cervical cancer but also yields various other health advantages.
5. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Maintain a healthy weight by getting frequent exercise. Manage stress through relaxation techniques.It is essential to emphasize that these personal habits support, rather than substitute for, routine cervical cancer screenings and other medical guidelines. Seek advice from a healthcare provider for tailored recommendations aligned with your specific health background and risk factors.