In India, Cervical Cancer is the 3rd most common cancer with an incidence rate of 18.3% (average cases 123,907). With a mortality rate of 9.1%, Cervical Cancer is the second leading cause of death according to Globocan 2020. In India, 6–29% of all cancers in women were cervical cancers. Due to enhanced sensitization about the welfare of women, cervical cancer has become a useful measure for diagnosis and prevention.
In an exclusive interview with Onlymyhealth, Dr Krishna Bharadwaj, a Chief Medical Officer Incharge from the Department of Health & Family Welfare in the Government of NCT of Delhi, who has over thirty years of clinical and administrative experience as in charge of different public health strategies and campaigns shared key insights on cervical cancer in India. Dr Bharadwaj has explained the role of a Pap smear as a screening tool for cervical cancer and has also described new trends and practices that are useful for the early identification of cervical cancer in India.
Here are the key excerpts from the interview:
Why is Cervical Cancer Screening a must for women?
The awareness of cervical cancer symptoms and the processes of screening for preventing the development of carcinoma was importantly stressed by Dr. Bharadwaj. Screening runs a long way in detecting precancerous states of the cervix and if detected early an individual stands a better chance of being treated and surviving cervix cancer.
Also Read: Cervical Cancer and Pregnancy: Preconception Preventive Measures For Cervical Cancer Patients
Are there different tests for different age groups?
In reply to that, Dr. Bharadwaj stated that there are many methods of screening tests for cervical cancer, and one may choose a particular test depending on the age, history, and the risks involved of the patient in question. It is recommended that individuals talk with their healthcare provider in order to decide which test is better.
Can routine cervical cancer screening prevent cancer?
The main responsibility of cervical cancer screening is to adequately prevent the gradual progression to invasive cancer. These include getting cervical cancer at an early stage that enables the doctors to identify the abnormal cells early and come up with measures to treat them to reduce the likelihood of cervical cancer.
How often should cervical cancer screening be done?
Dr. Bharadwaj suggested that women should continue their cervical cancer screenings as informed by the health departments. As for the screening frequency, it might depend on age, attributes of previous examination outcomes, and risk profiles.
Also Read: How EMRs Can Help In Early Detection And Treatment Of Cervical Cancer
What are the new innovative techniques for cervical cancer in India?
During the discussion, Dr. Bharadwaj explained how cervical cancer screening can be modified in India through better innovations in screening instruments, genetic tests, and personalised care methods. Hence, these are helping to develop better preventive control measures for cervical cancer as well as treatment methods.
Due to Dr. Bharadwaj’s experiences and dedication to the cause of helping women prevent cancer via cervical screening, the awareness, and employment of preventive measures among women increased significantly within her community. Considering the rise in the cases of cervical cancer in India, awareness plays a crucial role in prevention and diagnosis.