A Gift For All The Women, Men Receive From The Gift

byOmosomi

1.9K followers

6 years ago

#Cervical Cancer Awareness

This morning I‘d Cervical Cancer test, it was awesome there was no problem.

Stop and think for a minute

Every minute, one woman is diagnosed with cervical cancer somewhere in the world.1.2

It can be a threat to all women. 3

But many do not know enough about the disease. 4

See what you can do to protect yourself and loved ones.

What is cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer is cancer of the cervix (the ‘neck’ of the womb). And unlike some other cancers, it is not a condition dependent on family history because it is caused by a viral infection.1-4

What causes the disease?

Cervical cancer is cause by an infection related to certain types of a virus called Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Cervical cancer is by far the most common HPV-related disease and HPV itself is the most common viral infection of the reproductive tract.1-4 Up to 75% of sexually active women and men will be infected at some point in their lives and some may be repeatedly infected. Persistent infection with HPV is a necessary cause of cervical cancer.2,4,5

Who is most at risk?

Cervical cancer can affect all sexually active women of all ages not just older women.3 Up to 80% of women will be infected by HPV at some point in their life3 Not all HPV infections cause cancer, and although most of them clear naturally, some can lead to cancer.2,5,6

If it is that common, how come I’d never heard of it?

Although HPV infection is widespread, few people notice they are infected because they seldom have symptoms.4 The majority of HPV infections do not cause any symptoms and do get cleared out of the body on their own without any intervention.2.5 However, a small but significant proportion of infections can persist and progress to cancer.2 There is a risk for all women that HPV infections may become chronic and ultimately progress to cervical cancer.2 Unfortunately, this usually happens when women have become mothers with young families, are in the prime of their careers and the peak of their lives. Whatever the loss, the impact on lives and families is significant.7-9

Will I notice any symptoms?

There are often no signs or symptoms at the early stages when it can be successfully treated. Symptoms of cervical cancer ten to appear only after the cancer has reached an advanced stage and may include irregular, inter-menstrual (between periods) or abnormal vaginal bleeding after sexual intercourse, fatigue, weight loss, loss of appetite, vaginal discomfort or odourous discharge e.t.c 2

How can I prevent the causes of cervical cancer?

You can help to protect yourself and prevent the causes of cervical cancer by getting vaccinated and going for regular cervical cancer Screening.2,6 It is recommended that you start screening when you reach 30 years of age, and ideally continue to do this at least every 3 years until you reach 50 years and then every 5 years until you reach 65 years.6 Ensure you speak to your healthcare provider about vaccination and screening.

Why is vaccination AND regular screening important?

Although vaccination can help protect you against the main causes of cervical cancer, it doesn’t protect you against all of them, so it is important to have regular screening as well.2,6 Vaccination and screening are complementary. Together they are the most effective way of helping to prevent cervical cancer.2,5,6

Am I too young or too old for vaccination?

It is recommended that all young girls from 9 years of age are vaccinated.5,6 Older women can also benefit from vaccination against the causes of cervical cancer.3 Talk to your healthcare provider to see if vaccination is suitable for you.

When is the right time for my daughter to get vaccinated?

If your daughter is a least 9 years of age, then you should talk to your healthcare provider about vaccinating her.5-6

I am 32 years old and in a stable relationship, should I still get vaccinated?

Even if you have a long-term partner, you could still be at risk and could benefit from vaccination.3 Discuss with your healthcare provider on how to protect yourself through vaccination, as well as through screening once you are 26 years of age or older.3,6

How is the vaccination given?

The vaccination consists of 2 or 3 injections usually given over a six-month period by a doctor, nurse or other healthcare provider.5,10 It is important that you complete the full course of vaccination in order for the vaccination to be highly effective. You should also continue with regular screening even after vaccination as HPV vaccination does not replace cervical cancer screening.2,10

What should I do next? Take a decision to visit your healthcare provider for next steps on vaccination and screening.

Where can I get the vaccine?

The vaccine can be administered in a clinic or healthcare facility as well as in schools or community centres.6 Talk to your doctor, pharmacist, nurse or other healthcare provider about getting the vaccination.

Stop and think about cervical cancer for a minute, my beloved women.

Act now to reduce the risk.

I love comment, pls comment and like.

Omosomi