Bathinda: Max Super Speciality Hospital, Bathinda, highlighted the critical importance of early detection, timely screening, and preventive care for cervical cancer, with the aim of raising awareness.
Dr. Ritu Garg, Associate Director - Obstetrics and Gynecology, Max Hospital, said that cervical cancer, despite being one of the most preventable cancers, especially in developing countries like India, claims the lives of thousands of women every year. Globally, cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women. In India, it is the second most common cancer among women after breast cancer.
Explaining the reasons behind the high mortality rate, Dr. Ritu Garg said, "One of the biggest dangers of cervical cancer is that its early stages are often symptom-free, leading to many women remaining undiagnosed until the disease has progressed. Delayed diagnosis, limited access to screening facilities, lack of awareness about HPV vaccination, and social hesitation in seeking timely medical care are major contributing factors.
As the cancer progresses, women may experience abnormal vaginal bleeding, foul-smelling discharge, pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, and bleeding after intercourse. Unfortunately, many women ignore these warning signs or hesitate to consult a healthcare professional, resulting in delayed treatment."
Highlighting the importance of early detection, Dr. Ritu Garg further added, "Regular screenings can save lives. Simple and effective tests such as Pap smears, HPV DNA testing, and clinical examinations by trained specialists can detect cervical cancer before it develops or in its early stages."