Cervical cancer screening and HPV vaccination

Cervical cancer is a disease that can be prevented. At Ashirwad ENT & Maternity Hospital in Hadapsar, Pune, we consider educating women on preventive measures and approaches towards early detection and protection. With frequent screening and HPV vaccination, we shall thus significantly decrease the risk and effect of cervical cancer.

What is Cervical Cancer and HPV?

Cervical cancer is mainly brought about by a chronic infection of some of the high-risk types of Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which is a prevalent sexually transmitted infection. Most HPV infections resolve themselves, but others cause abnormal cell growth on the cervix, which, with time, given no treatment, may turn into cancer.

Our Two-Pronged Prevention Strategy:

1. Cervical Cancer Screening (Pap Smear & HPV Testing): Screening plays a vital role in identifying precancerous changes in the cervix even before the onset of these symptoms. This can easily be intervened in, and cancer can be avoided. Our hospital has the facilities to:

• Pap Smear (Cervical Cytology): A standard test involving obtaining cervical cells to examine abnormalities in the cervix.
• HPV DNA Testing: HPV DNA testing specifically identifies HPV types in the cervical cells, which is the primary cause of cervical cancer. The Indian Cancer Society advises HPV DNA testing to be used as the preferred screening method for the disease, particularly in women older than 30 years, and tests should be re-administered after every 5-10 years.
• Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA): It is a rapid screening test that gives an immediate result; it is simple and is commonly applied to resource-limited areas.

2. HPV Vaccination The HPV vaccine is a highly effective tool of primary prevention against cervical cancer and other HPV-related cancers (such as vaginal, vulvar, anal, and some throat cancer). It has a mechanism of action whereby it prevents the most prevalent HPV types associated with these cancers.

• Girls and boys: HPV vaccine is suggested to prevent HPV in adolescents, preferably before the onset of sexual activity, usually between the ages of 9-14 years (0 and 6 months).
• Older girls and women: Women and girls aged 26 and under should have catch-up vaccination against HPV if they have not been fully vaccinated. For women aged 27-45, consultations with your doctor are recommended to determine personal advantages.
• Vaccines available in India: 9- HPV types Gardasil, 4- HPV types Gardasil, two high-risk HPV types Cervarix, and Cervavac (indigenous) that covers HPV types 16 and 18. Prices are different, with Cervavac being cheaper.

Benefits of HPV Vaccination

• With great effectiveness, the risk of HPV infection.
• Cuts down the majority of the instances of cervical cancer.
• Backed up in the prevention of other forms of HPV-related cancer and genital warts.

The Importance of Choosing Ashirwad ENT & Maternity Hospital to Prevent Cervical Cancer?

• Expert Care in Gynaecology: We offer expert consultation and care to women under Dr. Subhangi Bhong, which is exclusively in Gynaecology.
• Full Screening: Pap smears and HPV DNA testing are available for an accurate and early diagnosis.
• HPV vaccination Service: This service supports HPV vaccination to give long-term security.
• Patient Education: We are convinced that our patients need to be informed about the precise details on the prevention and management of cervical cancer.
• Quality facilities: State-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment facilities are also available.

Talk with Dr. Subhangi Bhong at Ashirwad ENT & Maternity Hospital about screening and vaccination for cervical cancer before today.