Cervical cancer: a silent but preventable disease

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Extract from the article: Every year, thousands of women are affected by cervical cancer, a preventable and curable disease when detected in time. Long silent, this cancer develops gradually, often as a result of persistent infection by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexua

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Every year, thousands of women are affected by cervical cancer, a preventable and curable disease when detected in time. Long silent, this cancer develops gradually, often as a result of persistent infection by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted virus. Despite medical advances, screening is still insufficient, especially in Africa, where many women consult late.

In a normal organism, cells multiply and die in a well-organized cycle. But in the case of cancer, they escape this control and multiply in a disorderly and excessive way. These abnormal cells then accumulate to form a mass called a tumor. Over time, the disease can evolve and spread to other parts of the body, making management more complex.

The role of human papillomavirus (HPV)

Cervical cancer develops in the lower part of the uterus called the cervix. It is mainly caused by a persistent infection with human papillomavirus.

« The virus is usually transmitted during sexual intercourse and can remain in the body for years without causing symptoms », says Dr. Adjoavi Rose Adjenou-Atanley, gynecologist-obstetrician. In some cases, the immune system manages to eliminate the virus. But when it persists, it can lead to transformations of the cells of the cervix, gradually evolving towards precancerous lesions and then cancer.

A disease that was long silent

One of the great dangers of cervical cancer is its silence. « For 10 to 16 years, a woman may not show any signs », says the gynecologist, which is why screening plays an important role.

The cervico-vaginal smear makes it possible to detect cellular abnormalities even before the appearance of cancer. « The smear doesn’t necessarily say that there is cancer, but it does show whether cells are starting to transform », she explains. Screening is recommended for all sexually active women, generally from 25 years of age, and should be performed regularly.

Warning signs not to be overlooked

In the absence of screening, the disease eventually manifests itself through certain signs. Dr. Adjenou-Atanley insists on the importance of paying attention to it, particularly with regard to bleeding during or after sexual intercourse, bleeding outside of menstruation, and pain during sexual intercourse. « As soon as a woman notices an abnormal bleeding, she must consult. It is never a sign to be trivialized », warns the specialist.

At an advanced stage, other more serious symptoms may appear, including urinary disorders, pelvic pain or heavy bleeding. In these cases, the cancer often has already reached nearby organs such as the bladder or rectum.

A gradual evolution by stages

Cervical cancer progresses slowly and goes through several stages. First, precancerous lesions appear. « These are abnormalities that are not yet cancer, but can evolve if nothing is done », explains the gynecologist.

If the disease progresses, it may extend beyond the cervix, into the vagina and then into other organs. At an advanced stage, metastases may develop in the lungs, liver or bones.

Effective treatments, especially early ones

Management depends on the stage of the disease. When detected early, treatment is simple and effective. « At an early stage, only the affected part of the neck can be removed. The woman can go home quickly and lead a normal life », reassures Dr. Adjenou-Atanley.

On the other hand, when cancer is advanced, treatments become more cumbersome, such as surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy. « At these stages, treatment is more expensive and difficult, and sometimes you can no longer operate », she regrets.

The challenge of access to care

Beyond the medical aspects, access to care remains a major challenge. Many women do not undergo screening, often due to lack of information or financial means. « We still see too many cases at advanced stages, where treatments are heavy and sometimes ineffective », laments the specialist.

She also launches an appeal for solidarity to support patients: « Many are abandoning treatments due to lack of means. It is important that initiatives are put in place to support them ».

Prevention as the best weapon against cancer

In the face of this disease, prevention remains the most effective solution. It is based on three pillars, which include regular smear screening, HPV vaccination, and information and awareness-raising. « Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers that can be 100% prevented and cured if detected early », insists Dr. Adjoavi Rose Adjenou-Atanley, gynecologist-obstetrician.

In a context where cancer continues to cause preventable victims, screening and awareness must become a priority. Acting early is saving lives, in the face of cervical cancer.

Raymond DZAKPATA