One of the most common cancers in the country, awareness levels about the disease leave much to be desired. That is why, a concerted media campaign, featuring celebrities, has been launched recently. “In Pune, 35 women per 100,000 suffer from cervical cancer. In rural areas, the figure is much higher. The campaign is very timely and a welcome step. However, more information should be made available to the rural population. Some NGOs such as the Prashanti Cancer Care Mission, V Care and Samavedana provide aid to people from the lower economic strata for treatment of the disease,” informs Dr Nag.

“Under the Jeevandayi Scheme of the state government, upto Rs 1.5 lakh are given to each individual for treatment of cervical cancer. The patient can avail treatment by producing their ration card,” she adds.

Symptoms
Pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, bleeding between periods, post-menstrual bleeding, vaginal discharge

Causes
HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) infection. HPV is a sexually transmitted virus, very common and may only be detected years later

Risk factors
Having sex at an early age; with multiple sexual partners; Several pregnancies; Using birth control pills for five or more years; Consuming tobacco in any form

Prevention
Cervical cancer vaccine. Recommended for girls aged 11-12, it helps activate a girl’s immune system before she’s likely to encounter HPV