HPV and Cervical Cancer

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the leading diseases as well as a cause that poses significant health risks like cervical cancer globally. Due to the lack of awareness programs, there is a huge gap in knowledge. According to the HPV Information Center, only 66% of the population is aware of this infection till now. According to UNICEF, every two minutes, a woman loses a battle against cervical cancer, and these are some alarming numbers.

That is why, understanding this infection, early detection, and prevention will help to reduce the chances of issues. This article will help you to know about HPV and its direct link with cervical cancer. Moreover, it is also intended to let people know about symptoms, risk factors, treatment options, and myths linked to this.

Without wasting time, let’s just into the topic.

HPV and Cervical Cancer

What is HPV (Human Papillomavirus)?

This is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases that can impact certain parts of the body including genitals, hands, mouth, and throat. Overall, there are 100 types of HPV, out of which 30 HPV strains can be found around genital areas. As per experts, men are most likely to get infected by HPV, because the men’s immune system does not effectively respond to HPV as women, and their genital area is more prone to micro-abrasion which becomes an entry point for the virus.

Facts:

  • Common that everyone is most likely to experience (low-risk HPV).
  • Low-risk one goes away without causing any issues.
  • High-risk infections have the ability to cause infection.
  • Vaccination can prevent cancer, but early detection is necessary. 

How is HPV linked with cervical cancer?

High-risk strains like HPV 16 and 18 are linked with cervical cancer. These infect the cervical cells by interfering with them, leading to the multiplication of infected cells in an uncontrolled manner. But sometimes, these remain there and continue to grow which further forms precancerous cells. Once these surpasses or haven’t clear immune system then they infect the cervix skin by making it abnormal.

According to the National Cancer Institute, cervical cancer is majorly caused by HPV (Human Papillomavirus). Even research stated that Human Papillomavirus is the second most cancer-causing virus holding account of 690,000 cervical cancer alone around the globe.

Prevalence and risk factors

  • As per NCBI research, around 6.6% of women in India have a high risk of HPV 16/18 infection, whereas 76.7% of patients are harbored with cervical cancer.
  • Moreover, almost 60.3% of the Indian population is infected with HPV infection.
  • Cervical cancer happens in the cervical cells which are connected to the uterus and to the vagina. This starts in the cervix and makes cervical tissue abnormal, leading to cancerous cells.
  • The highest burden of the cases is in Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Karnataka states.
  • Currently in India, less than 1% of girls are HPV vaccinated and less than 2% of women have ever been screened, according to RGCIRC. 
  • More than 511.4 million people are at risk of getting infected with this virus.
  • The prevalence of HPV DNA in newborn babies is about 17.7%.
  • According to The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), smoking is a cofactor of oral HPV, as 2% of tobacco users experience health issues due to the virus.

Risk factors of HPV:

There are some of the common risk factors of the infection include-

– Age: children’s immune systems are weak than adults, so they are more likely to get caught by the infection when they come in contact. During play or cuddles, when they come in skin-to-skin contact, the virus affects them. While genital warts happen in adults and adolescents.

– Sexual activity: those who perform sexual activities with a number of partners, that person is most likely to get infected. Moreover, if your partner is sexually active with several partners, you will get an infection. This disease is contagious.

– Weak immune system: A healthy immune system helps to fight against infection, but those with weak immune systems have a high risk of infection.

– Contact: even if you touch someone’s wart without any protection, then it can also spread. That is why, if any person in your contact is dealing with this, it is prudent to make a safe distance and avoid direct contact. It can help you prevent from transmission of the virus. 

2. Causes and Risk Factors

How HPV is transmitted (sexual and non-sexual transmission).

By the experts, it is documented that, skin-to-skin connection, or skin-to-mucosa is one of the prime reasons for the transmission. There are several routed of HPV transmission including-

  • Horizontal- It can happen through fingers, sexual activities, fomites, and mouth. Although viruses live up to 7 days on the surface they come in contact.
  • Self-inoculation- is spread by touching objects, mother to child, or through general skin connection.
  • Vertical transmission- it is transmitted from mother to newborn and generally spread through the placenta, amniotic fluid, or maternal genitalia during natural birth.
  • Waterborne transmittal- although this is not proven specifically, some studies water HPV DNA in water habitats. Such as in sewage which might result when someone with strains scrubs their skin and mucous membrane or might create water due to urine or feces pollution. As per a 2015 study, infectious disease specialists collected a sample and found 56% sample infected.

High-risk vs. low-risk HPV strains

– Low-risk human papillomavirus-

It is the type that is linked to genital warts and rarely causes cancer. This includes HPV 6 and HPV 11 types which have proteins like E6 and E7. Sometimes these protein increases the risk of cancer.

You can detect by their appearance as they create cauliflower-shaped warts which are around the genital, cervix, vagina, or anus. It may also appear in the mouth and throat, and HPV 6 and 11 are responsible for 90% of warts. This can also cause abnormal chances of cervix cells, and mild cervical dysplasia and these are not precancerous.

– High–risk human papillomavirus-

This type leads to cervical dysplasia and can cause certain types of cancer. There are overall 12 risk strains but majorly types 16 and 18 cause cancer around the vagina, penis, cervix, anus and penis. Remember that, a good immune system helps to get rid of HPV infection within two years, so make sure to work on that. Some common symptoms of this include lumps, bleeding, and pain in warts.

Lifestyle and genetic risk factors

Simple yet some of the lifestyle habits of people that make them more susceptible to HPV infection include-

  • Sexually active with multiple partners
  • Poor diet and lack of physical activities lead to weak immune system
  • Smoking and drinking have nicotine and carbon monoxide which alter the immune system cells, making them weak, which lowers their fighting capability against viruses, infection, and germs.
  • Remember, HPV is not genetic, but some genetic variants make your body vulnerable to the virus. Like human leukocyte antigen, this causes way too much protein in the body which makes the body less effective in recognizing HPV infection.

Concerning fact: Doctors found a genetic variant that increases the high risk of HPV infection leading to cervical cancer. Additionally, genetic variant contributes to increasing the risk of cervical cancer by 30%.

3. Symptoms of HPV and Cervical Cancer

Early-stage symptoms vs. advanced-stage symptoms.

1. Early stage:

Sometimes stage symptoms go unnoticed and do not show any symptoms, but there are some common symptoms that you can notice-

– Genital warts: these are small white and flesh-colored bumps and cause itching sometimes around that area. It appears on the genital area and causes discomfort, bleeding, burning sensation, or bleeding during intercourse.

– Plantar warts: it is found on the bottom of the foot and toes, and you can notice thick and rough skin, and black dots, and you feel pain around that area. It happens when the infection enters the skin through cuts or breaks.

– Common warts: these are rough bumps on several parts of the body that are also painful and susceptible to injury. This happens when the skin produces too much keratin than usual which is also known as had protein.

– Flat warts: these are smaller and smoother bumps on the skin. You can easily notice them as these are skin in color and appear on the neck, hands, or face. 

2. Advanced HPV symptoms:

When the early-stage symptoms go unnoticeable and turn into a stage where they start to impact promptly, then it is time you should seek medical attention immediately. Here are some of the symptoms which will help you to know-

Precancerous lesions

– If you found unexpected weight loss and started to feel fatigued all the time, then this indicates signs of disease.

– Feeling pain or discomfort after or during intercourse.

– Difficulty in urinary and bowel movements which is causing pain while performing these activities.

– Abnormal vaginal discharge and bleeding which have a foul smell.

– Started to have pain in the lower abdominal and pelvic area. Moreover, if you also feel pain and bleed from the rectum, then you might have a precancerous lesion which indicates the severe stage of HPV infection.

– To all, who started to have pain, or bleeding unexpectedly around the genital area, kindly consult with a professional and stop using any over-the-counter medication. You never know which issue you might be facing unless or until you visit a doctor.

Asymptomatic nature of early HPV infection.

Generally, HPV doesn’t show early signs of infection unless and until they become severe. HPV stays in the body for up to 10 to 20 years, and in most cases, it is resolved on its own within 2 years without causing any problems. Moreover, few people are aware of HPV, and the majority are unable to recognize the infection. That is why, there are common hints that you can notice in HPV including-

  • Warts on different areas of parts
  • Pain and pelvic pressure
  • Difficulty in urination
  • Bleeding unexpectedly during intercourse

If you ever notice any of these symptoms, then it is highly recommended to get yourself checked before you spread them to the people around you.

Prevention Strategies

HPV vaccination

Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself from HPV infection. If your child is above 9, then it is time for them to get vaccinated. This will aid in protecting from future issues.

You must be wondering who should get vaccinated and when.

As per CDC instruction, all preteens should get HPV vaccination. And those adults who never got this should consult their doctor about the vaccination. Although, doctors recommend vaccination for children 4 to 16. This has less effect who are older, as it won’t offer benefits as same as younger ones. That is why, doctors are less likely to recommend the HPV vaccine after 26 years of age.

Moreover, if somehow you are one of those who never got the shots, then don’t worry, by discussing with your healthcare provider, you can get vaccinated. People with weak immune systems need to take it because our immune system helps to tackle diseases. Doctors recommend this in the early stage of life because your body will create a shield that makes it impossible for the HPV virus to enter. Although, there is no denying that, even after vaccination you are fully protected, the chances are very slight.

Types of HPV vaccines

1. Cervavac: this is India’s only gender neutral HPV vaccine. Doctors recommend this to children above 9 to protect them from virus HPV types 6,11,16, and 18. The 2 doses of vaccine should be between the ages 1 to 14 and the 3rd dose scheduled for that age is between 15 to 26. The efficacy rate of this vaccine is 90% and shows a remarkable response in protecting from precancerous lesions due to HPV.

2.. Cervarix: this is a mixture of HPV serotypes 16 and 18 along with L1 protein with AS04. The doses show a positive result with 90% efficacy. The purpose of this is to protect people from disease. This vaccination is prescribed to women aged between 9 to 45 and this is given in three doses in the course of 6 months. The most common side effect of this is mild fever, pain, and swelling around the injected area. It is highly recommended, even if you are vaccinated, still practice safe intercourse to avoid any sexually transmitted disease.

Note: this is not recommended for pregnant, immunosuppressed, and lactating women.

3. Gardasil: the purpose of this vaccine is to build the capacity of the body to protect it from HPV diseases including genital, cervical, neck cancer, etc. Although Gardasil the company stated that, it may not protect everyone fully, it is not a choice also. It is mandatory for everyone to be vaccinated and prevent themselves from several diseases. For those who are considering taking this, kindly consult with doctors because you might not know which ingredient of the vaccine can cause a reaction.

Vaccine effectiveness and safety

As per CDSCO, Cervavac does not treat active genital lesions, vaginal cancer, or cervical cancer caused by HPV. Moreover, this should not be given to pregnant women, as this can increase the chances of complications. According to Gavi- The Vaccine Alliance, these vaccines provided 90% protection from cervical cancer antibodies.

Although this vaccine provides good safety, there are some common symptoms like fever, dizziness, nausea, and headache you might feel. But this is a way your body chooses to cope with the vaccine. So nothing to worry about.

Safe sexual practices

This is nothing new and every doctor recommends couples. Not to protect from HPV, but safe sexual practices help you protect from sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancy. So, here are some of the tips-

  • Use condoms- make sure to use condoms every time you have sex. It should be used from the very beginning to the very end. It doesn’t matter whether you are practicing oral sex, or using condoms, and for women, dental dams (latex sheets worn over the genitals of women) are prescribed.
  • Communication is the key- always communicate about your sexuality with your partner. It doesn’t matter if you have any infections or something else, it is better to let them know and decide whether they want to proceed or not.
  • Undergo regular STI testing- regular testing will help you know about your genital health. You can make a resolution that on every birthday, you will go for an STI test.
  • Limiting sexual partners- will help you to reduce the risk of STIs. Moreover, you never know about the sexual history of others and the type of disease or infection they carry.
  • Consult your doctor- talking to doctors about your concerns is the best way to know about diseases or infections. You should consider talking to your doctors about sexual tips for healthy sexual health.

Importance of routine gynaecological check-ups

Regular visits to a gynaecologist should be on your checklist. Almost 6%, equivalent to 30 million people in India have STI, and its prevalence is higher in adults because of unsafe sexual practices. That is why, through this visit, you will know about your sexual health, chances of issues, and how to prevent yourself from that.

Moreover, healthcare providers also conduct tests like Pap smears and HPV tests to know the chances of precancerous changes or infection. Women have the opportunity to discuss their menstrual issues, contraception options, and other personal issues. Conclusively, you can say that this proactive step can protect you from severe health issues. That is why addressing issues and adopting healthy practices are the road to a healthy life.

5. Screening and Early Detection

Pap smear test

Now it is time to know what options you have for early detection and screening. The pap smear process includes a test where cells are collected from the cervix to know the chances of cervical cancer. These samples are collected using a spatula or small brush, and examined under a microscope. If the test shows abnormalities, then further screening is recommended. Sometimes it is combined with pelvic examination to get the details precisely.

Regardless of your sexual history, this test is recommended by doctors. This test depends on your age-

– In the 20s- at the age of 21, you should visit a doctor for the test, and after that, every three years this test needs to be done. However, co-testing is also an option, which is repeated every 5 years.

– After 30- that time, screening including HPV test and pap smear which involved co-testing every 5 years. This is the age, where the chances of HPV are high.

– After 65- After this test, your reports are normal, then you can stop for further testing. However, before taking any decision, consider a consultation with your doctor.

Interpretation of results (normal, abnormal, ASCUS, LSIL, HSIL).

There are several ways that help to interpret the results including-

  • Normal- when your results show no negative signs of abnormalities in your cervix cells.
  • ASCUS (atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance)- cells show slight abnormalities, but this doesn’t define a sign of a cancerous or precancerous condition. It can be because of infection, or inflammation. For further investigation, doctors recommend an HPV test.
  • LSIL (low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion)- it looks like an abnormal cell under the microscope which also shows low-grade precancerous changes. Sometimes, it is often resolved without treatment, but it is highly recommended to opt for treatment. Because it can become a cancer and can spread to the nearby tissues. It is also called Mild Dysplasia.
  • HSIL (high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion)- as its name suggests, this is where when the cells of the cervix show severe signs of precancerous changes that require the immediate attention of a healthcare professional. These are majorly caused by the infection, leading to human papillomavirus. HSIL increases the chances of cervical cancer from 31% to 50%.

HPV DNA test

It is basically conducted during Pap smear test which is known as co-testing. A speculum is inserted into the vagina to reach the cervix, then collected cells from that.

The only thing that is needed is that you should not have intercourse before 24 hours of the test, and not use tampons. The doctors ordered this test when abnormalities were projected in pap test results. Moreover, it also helps to detect oropharyngeal cancer, which is also caused by HPV.

Why it is important?

This test is more effective than other screening methods. Even, the WHO also stated that DNA-based HPC testing is a great way to know the possibilities of cancer. It also aids in detecting the abnormalities in cervix cells that might have been missed by a pap smear, defining its ability. Moreover, it reduces the chances of human error, providing accurate results.

Who should consider it?

Women above 30 should consider this test. However, if someone’s pap smear result shows the abnormalities, then doctors conduct the screening.

Recommended screening guidelines by age

According to the National Institute of Health, cervical cancer screening should be conducted after every 5 years for all women above age 30. And this is unacceptable to women in their late 20s. For them, primary HPV testing is recommended.

Special consideration:

Women with HIV, or who have weak immune systems should consider frequent screening because they become vulnerable to HPV infection because of that. Even though you got your vaccination, there is no harm in opting for screening.

6. Diagnosis and Staging of Cervical Cancer

Diagnostic procedures

Now you already know about Pap smears and HPV DNA tests. These are some of the common diagnosis methods chosen by healthcare professionals. There are other methods also that you should know about.

– Colposcopy: This is a magnified visual test of the cervix, vulva, and vagina. Through a colposcope, these areas are checked and it is often performed if an HPV test or Pap smear shows abnormalities in cervix cells. By applying acetic acid, doctors able to analyze the uncharacteristic cells. Although it is relatively little painful because a speculum is inserted into the vagina which gives a sensation of burning and stinging. But it went away after some time.

– Biopsy: a tissue of the cervix is collected and examined under a microscope. This examination is considered after a pap smear, and performed during colposcopy. This is different from that because, a biopsy is recommended to check the specific area of the cervix, allowing it a more detailed analysis. This analysis helps healthcare professionals to know about cancerous or precancerous cells which further lead to HPV.

– Liquid-based cytology- just like pap smear, in this method, the cells are extracted, and then stained as they are placed in the liquid. This test helps to provide a more high-quality examination of cells than a pap smear because it removes inadequate specimens like blood and mucus. It aids in examining HPV types 16, 33, 35, 31, 18 and 51.

– Imaging test: this includes a CT scan, chest x-ray, and MRI. These images help to provide information bout different parts of the body and give a detailed image to know the exact situation.

Stages of cervical cancer

Stages of cancer define the severity in the body, and its potential to spread across the neighboring tissues. The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics uses a staging system, which signifies the size of the tumor.

1. Stage 1: This is divided into two sections IA and IB, and these are based on the size and deep point inside the cervix.

Stage 1A1: when cervix cells indicate a small amount of cancer-causing infection under the microbe and the deepest point of the tumor is 3 mm or less, then cancer comes under this stage.

Stage 1A2: in this, the deepest point is more than 3mm, but less than 5mm.

Stage 1B1: the tumor is 2 cm in size with a deepest point of more than 5mm.

Stage 1B2: now the cancer cells can be seen very accurately under the microscope as the tumor size is more than 2 cm, but less than 4 cm.

Stage 1B3: the tumor is larger than 4cm in size.

According to the Department of Biotechnology Government of India stated that cervix uteri is the 3rd most common cancer in India with an incidence rate of 18.3%. This is also a second causing cancer leading to death with a rate of 9.1% mortality.  This is divided into 2:

2. Stage 2: when cancer reaches the neighboring tissues of the uterus, but not the pelvic walls, then this case comes under Stage 2 Cervical Cancer.

Stage 2A1: the size of the tumor is 4 cm or lesser, and covers two-this area of the vagina.

Stage 2A2: the tumor size is greater than 4cm.

Stage 2B: beyond the cervix, the cancer is spread to the surrounding tissues which is called parametrium. Yet the pelvic sidewalls are still safe.

3. Stage 3: in this stage, the virus of the cancer covered the lower third part of the vagina, also to the pelvic wall. It also started to create issues in the kidney involving lymph nodes.

Stage 3A: when the virus reached the lower third part of the vagina.

Stage 3B: now the tumor is enlarged enough that it blocks one or both ureters leading to issues in the kidney (either it stops working or one gets bigger than the other). It also spreads to the pelvic walls.

Stage 3C: when the cancer reaches the lymph nodes near the aorta and in the pelvis, then this is called stage 3C of cervical cancer.

4. Stage 4: this is the most advanced stage of cervical cancer, also considered as the final stage. Tumors spread beyond the pelvic area including the rectum, bladder, and some other parts of the body. It is also subdivided into 2 based on the area where it is spread. It is also known as metastatic cancer. 

Stage 4A: when cancer covers nearby organs of the pelvic area.

Stage 4B: now the tumors cover the liver, lungs, lymph nodes, and bones.

Recurrent stage: when the cancer cells survive, developing new cells, and when cancer returns after the initial treatment, this is called recurrent cancer.


7. Treatment Options

Treatment for HPV infections

As per doctors, treatment does not get rid of the virus from your body, but it can remove the abnormalities and visible warts. So here are some of the options-

1. Electrocautery- through an electrical current, the warts are being burned.

2. Cryosurgery- through nitrogen liquid, the abnormal cells and warts are frozen, and prevented from spreading.

3. Loop electrosurgical exci1sion procedure (LEEP)- through an insulated wire loop, the abnormal tissues and warts are removed from the surface of the cervix. This process takes 20 minutes minimum.

4. Prescription cream- the common and simple, as a medicated cream is prescribed by doctors like imiquimod and podofilox. This cream should be directly used on warts to destroy the virus.

5. Cold knife cone biopsy- the surgeon removes the abnormal tissues through a surgical procedure from the cervix. It also allows the surgeon to remove the inner parts of the infected area.

6. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA)- this is a chemical procedure where the caustic agent is used directly to the anal and genital warts, causing them to shrink and disappear.

Treatment of cervical cancer

If the virus is beyond the above treatment and leads to cervical cancer, then there are other treatments based on the stage.

1. Radiation therapy

One of the common treatments for the majority of the types of cancer. Radiations are used to kill the cancer-causing cells, which also damage the DNA. There are two types of radiation therapy including internal and outer.

External therapy uses a machine that helps to send the radiation to the part of the body where the cancer is. Inner radiation therapy called brachytherapy, is where a radioactive source is inserted into the exact location of cancer, and high doses of radiation are delivered. This aids in damaging cancer cells without harming other organs that much. Stage 2 of cervical cancer is treated by this method.

2. Hysterectomy

The purpose of the surgery is to remove the uterus and other surrounding areas of the cervix where the cancer infection has spread. This is used to treat stage 1A and 1B1 cervical cancer. There are types of hysterectomy including-

Total hysterectomy- through the vagina, the entire cervix and uterus are removed. Sometimes it is also done through a large incision on the abdomen.

Radical hysterectomy– the surgery includes the removal of a wide area of ligament, parametria (tissue next to the cervix), and upper part of the vagina. In some cases, if the infection is expanded more, the doctor may remove fallopian tubes, ovaries, and lymph nodes, resulting in loss of fertility.

Modified radical- this is slightly different from radical, as the upper part of the vagina and parametris are not removed in this, while only part of the uterosacral ligament is removed.

3. Radical trachelectomy

This treatment aids in treating Stage 1 of cervical cancer. Removal of the cervix, the upper part of the vagina, and nearby tissue are included along with lymph nodes. After that, the uterus is attached to the remaining parts. This surgery does not stop you from getting pregnant.

4. Total Pelvic Exenteration

This surgical process is used to treat advanced stages like 4A and recurrent cancer. Hence, as the name suggests, the surgery is done to remove the bladder, rectum, colon, cervix, vagina, ovaries and lymph nodes. In place of this, an artificial stoma is placed for urine and stool to pass in the bag. Some people went through plastic surgery to create an artificial vagina.

5. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy includes drugs and radiation to destroy the cancer-causing cells or stop them from dividing further. People do experience diarrhea, nausea, loss of appetite, hair loss, etc., after the treatment. It assists in the treatment of stage 2B, 3, 4A, and 4B stage of cervical cancer.

6. Chemoradiation

It is the combination of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, and it is often used in advanced stages of cancer like 3 and 4. Both treatments are given concurrently once a week because they include high radiation with a high drug dose which weakens the patient.

7. Immunotherapy

As the name suggests, doctors first conduct a thorough examination through biomarkers to know how your body will respond to immunotherapy drugs. After that, drugs are used to advance the immune system of the person, which further helps in killing cancer cells. Even the FDA has also approved this treatment. This is to treat stage 4 cancer.

8. Target therapy

The medicines are used to target the protein of cancer cells which stops them from growing further and spreading across the other organs. It is basically used to treat recurrent and advanced stages of cervical cancer. The therapies included in this-

– RET inhibitor- slepercatinib is used for RET rearrangement which allows to stop abnormal form of protein which is basically a reason for tumor cell growth. This capsule is recommended by doctors and must be consumed twice a day. – NTRK inhibitor- Under this treatment, the drug, or pills are used to disable the protein of cancer cells.

8. Living with HPV or Cervical Cancer

Coping with diagnosis

  • It is traumatizing for everyone who is dealing with HPV or cervical cancer. As it spreads through physical contact, some people live in guilt and shame, wondering if they have done something inappropriate. Moreover, it also impacts their relationships. Hence, here are some of the coping strategies.
  • The first thing that you need to do is to educate yourself about HPV or cervical cancer.
  • Try to make healthy choices in your life like quitting smoking and drinking, adding healthy food to your diet, and communicating with your partner about your feelings.
  • Due to meditation and treatment, your body will change, so make sure not to strain yourself on the self-image of sexual life.
  • Seek counseling from experts, as they will help you deal with your emotions, and it is the safest place to discuss sensitive topics without any judgment. Understand, that during this tough time, your mental stability is very important.

Support groups and counseling

  • Happa UHAPO is a community that is helping people to deal with cancer. As it is a complex disease, they use a multidimensional approach and intense training to help patients in every possible way.
  • Indian Cancer Society is helping people educate about the disease. They have also created several programs to help patients.
  • YouWeCan is an NGO started by Yuvraj Singh. Their aim is to empower cervical cancer patients and address their issues.
  • Other than that, there are several cancer care NGOs where you can find help and support to deal with. Check Government interventions and support for cervical cancer patients.
  • Moreover, you can also find local groups who are supporting patients dealing with HPV or cervical cancer.

Lifestyle modification to protect from HPV

Maintaining a strong immunity is essential for everyone, as it helps us to fight against diseases. Even studies stated that a stronger immune system lowers the chances of HPV. So here are some of the modifications you can make-

  • Quit smoking and drinking- Due to the free radicals, smoking and drinking alcohol triggers chronic inflammation which impairs the activities of cells, and lowers the level of antioxidants like vitamin C.
  • Review your diet- your food should contain riboflavin, vitamin B2, C, folate, and thiamine. These are sources that boost the immune system, and you can find them in whole grains, milk, cheese, green vegetables, fruits, eggs, chicken, and fish.
  • Reduce your stress- it is easier said than it’s done. But your stress is disrupting hormones, making them imbalanced which disturbs the normal functions of your immune system. Practice yoga, exercise, meditation, or anything that makes you happy.


9. Myths and Facts About HPV and Cervical Cancer

Common misconceptions debunked

It is time to break the silence on myths about HPV and cervical cancer.

1. A person with a lot of sexual partners gets HPV.

No. Even those who are sexually active with only one partner can have HPV. In India, the ratio of males to females in HPV cases is 1:2.

2. If you are HPV infected, you will get cervical cancer.

HPV is very common, as 8 out of 10 women get infected once in their life. But when the infection persists for a longer time, then it starts to create abnormal cells, leading to cervical cancer.

3. HPV vaccination causes ovarian failure.

This is a bullshit. As of now, there is no case over the world that can claim this myth. Even studies are also conducted to know this, but still, doctors don’t find any situation that supports this.

4. Children don’t need vaccination, as they are not sexually active.

It is important to note that, early prevention is better. Children under 15 should get their vaccination, as it improves the immune response.

5. Once you are sexually active, the vaccine does not work as it is supposed to.

In clinical trials, doctors found that even sexually active men or women get protection from HPV (which is greater than 90%).

Scientific facts about HPV and cervical cancer

Although HPV has become the leading factor of cervical cancer, the combination of early screening and treatment prevents the majority of cases. Here are some of the scientific facts which will help you know more about this-

1. All cervical cancers are somehow linked with HPV.

More than 95% of the cases are caused by human papillomavirus, because the type doesn’t even show any symptoms, and high-risk ones lead to chronic diseases. Moreover, Cervical Cancer is the 4th leading cancer globally, which also signifies the importance of awareness and education.

2. Screening and treatment are effective to detect and diagnose the issue.

Rather than visiting doctors when issues occur, it is better to visit for routine screening. Early detection helps to protect from spreading of disease to others.

3. HPV vaccine provides protection against cancer by 90%. Vaccination is an effective way to protect yourself from HPV and cervical cancer. Several countries introduced this in routine immunization events. UNICEF claimed that, as per 2022 data, 1 out of 5 girls get vaccinated, but more is indeed needed.

10. Conclusion and Key Takeaways

As of now, you know, it is necessary to know about HPV, as this causes cervical cancer. However early detection and prevention are also important. Pap and HPV test aids can prevent your disease through early detection. In India, awareness and prevention are still poor, which is why, it accounts for 5th position globally in HPV incidence and mortality. But by combining early screening and vaccination, we can reduce the burden of HPV and save lives.

Understand that, proactive steps towards the disease can make a huge difference. It will not only help you from getting affected, but you can also protect others around you. It is time to take charge of health in your hand. First thing first, get yourself vaccinated and make sure to stay up to date about cervical cancer. Visiting doctors for checkups, and understanding your health should be the priority.

Now, it is turn for awareness. Although the government is doing there bit, why don’t you educate your friends or family about this? If even one person understands it, it will be good, won’t it? Moreover, you can always ask experts like Cradle Children’s Hospital to know about HPV or cervical cancer. And if you are concerned about your child, then they are the ones who can help you know about it in detail.

End Note

Empowering others with knowledge is the best to create a healthier life for everyone. This will help society be more informed, and they can take steps to protect themselves. Encourage open conversation, or there are support groups also who are taking initiative towards the cause. Additionally, to all couples or singles, prioritize safe sexual activities and start adopting healthy habits in your life. From understanding the signs of HPV to knowing about the stages of cervical cancer, everything is important.

We pave the way towards a brighter and healthier life. Understand this, your health matters- take charge. For more information, feel free to contact Cradle Children Hospital.