Cervical Cancer Prevention Week 2026: A Global Call to Prioritise Cervical Health

Every year, over 600,000 women worldwide are diagnosed with cervical cancer, with about 340,000 losing their lives to the disease. In India, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women. The good news is that with early intervention – through regular screenings and preventive measures such as HPV vaccination – many cases can be prevented or treated successfully. Cervical Cancer Prevention Week is observed to raise awareness, encourage screenings, and empower women to take charge of their cervical health.

In line with the week’s objective, this article will guide you through everything you need to know about cervical cancer: the early symptoms to watch for, the diagnostic tests available, the treatment options, and the most effective prevention strategies.

But first, let us understand more about Cervical Cancer Awareness Week and its purpose.

History and Purpose of Cervical Cancer Prevention Week

Cervical Cancer Prevention Week began as a dedicated effort to raise awareness about cervical cancer and the importance of early detection and prevention. The observance was originally launched in the United Kingdom in 2012 by Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust, a charity focused on supporting women affected by cervical cancer and promoting cervical health.

Since its inception in the UK, Cervical Cancer Prevention Week has grown in reach, inspiring health organisations, governments, and communities around the world to promote education, encourage screening, and support vaccination against the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is the primary cause of cervical cancer.

The main purpose of Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, observed in January each year, typically during the third week of the month, is to remind women about recognising early symptoms, attending regular cervical screening, understanding diagnostic options, and taking preventive steps such as HPV vaccination.

What is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus connecting the womb to the vagina. It usually develops slowly over several years, often starting as abnormal changes in the cells lining the cervix. These changes, known as precancerous lesions, can progress into cancer if they are not detected and treated early.

The primary cause of cervical cancer is a persistent infection with high-risk types of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus transmitted through sexual contact. Early stages of cervical cancer often show no symptoms, which makes regular screening crucial. When detected early, cervical cancer is highly treatable.

What are the Risk Factors?

Cervical cancer develops due to a combination of factors that can increase a woman’s likelihood of developing the disease:

• Persistent HPV Infection: HPV is a common virus transmitted through sexual contact. While most HPV infections resolve naturally, persistent infection with high-risk strains can cause abnormal changes in cervical cells, leading to cancer over time.
• Multiple Sexual Partners: Having multiple sexual partners, or having a partner with multiple partners, increases the chance of HPV exposure, which is strongly linked to cervical cancer.
• Smoking: Tobacco use weakens the immune system and exposes the cervix to harmful chemicals, which can contribute to the development of precancerous and cancerous changes.
• Weakened Immune System: Conditions such as HIV or medications that suppress immunity can prevent the body from clearing HPV infections effectively, raising the risk of cervical cancer.
• Long-Term Use of Oral Contraceptives: Using birth control pills for many years has been associated with a slightly higher risk of developing cervical cancer, especially in women who have other risk factors.
• Other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, or herpes may increase vulnerability to HPV-related cervical cell changes.
• Family History and Genetic Factors: Women with a family history of cervical or other related cancers may have a slightly higher risk, suggesting a potential genetic component.
• Socioeconomic and Access Factors: Limited access to healthcare, infrequent cervical screenings, and lack of awareness about preventive measures can also increase the risk.

What are the Signs You Should Watch Out For?

Cervical cancer often develops slowly and may not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages. However, certain warning signs can indicate changes that need medical attention:

• Unusual Vaginal Bleeding: This may include bleeding between periods, after sexual intercourse, or after menopause. Any unexpected bleeding should never be ignored, as it can be an early indicator of abnormal cell changes in the cervix.
• Persistent Vaginal Discharge: Watery, bloody, or foul-smelling discharge that continues over time may signal infection or precancerous changes.
• Pelvic or Lower Back Pain: Pain that persists in the lower abdomen, pelvis, or lower back can indicate that the disease is affecting surrounding tissues.
• Pain During Intercourse (Dyspareunia): Discomfort or pain during sexual activity may be caused by abnormal changes in cervical tissue.
• Changes in Menstrual Patterns: Heavier bleeding, longer periods, or irregular cycles may suggest underlying cervical issues.
• Urinary or Bowel Changes: Difficulty urinating, blood in urine, or altered bowel habits may appear in more advanced cases as cancer spreads.
• Unexplained Weight Loss or Fatigue: Sudden loss of weight, persistent tiredness, or a general feeling of weakness can occur as the disease progresses.
• Leg Swelling or Pain: In advanced stages, blocked lymph nodes can cause swelling or discomfort in the legs.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can also result from other, less serious conditions.

How is Cervical Cancer Diagnosed?

Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and better outcomes in cervical cancer. Doctors use a combination of screening and diagnostic tests to detect abnormal cervical cells or confirm the presence of cancer.

Pap Smear (Pap Test)

A Pap smear involves collecting cells from the cervix to check for precancerous or abnormal changes. It is a simple and quick procedure that can detect early changes before they develop into cancer. Regular Pap smears are recommended for women starting at age 21 and are a cornerstone of cervical cancer prevention.

HPV Test

The HPV test checks for the presence of high-risk human papillomavirus strains, which are the main cause of cervical cancer. This test can be done alone or in combination with a Pap smear (co-testing). A positive HPV test may lead to further examination or monitoring.

Colposcopy

If a Pap smear or HPV test shows abnormal results, a colposcopy may be performed. This procedure uses a special magnifying instrument to examine the cervix more closely. During the exam, the doctor may apply a solution to highlight abnormal areas and take biopsies for further analysis.

Cervical Biopsy

A biopsy involves removing a small sample of cervical tissue to confirm the presence of cancerous or precancerous cells. There are several types of biopsy, including punch biopsy, cone biopsy, or endocervical curettage, depending on the location and extent of the abnormal tissue.

Imaging Tests

If cancer is suspected or diagnosed, imaging tests help determine the stage and spread of the disease. Commonimaging tests include:

• Ultrasound: Provides a basic view of the cervix and surrounding organs.
• CT Scan: Helps detect whether the cancer has spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes.
• MRI: Gives detailed images of the cervix and surrounding areas
• PET Scan: Detects active cancer cells in the body and helps in staging advanced disease.

Regular screening and timely follow-up of abnormal results are critical, as cervical cancer often develops silently in the early stages.

What Treatment Options are Available for Cervical Cancer?

The treatment for cervical cancer depends on factors such as the stage of the cancer, the size of the tumour, and the overall health of the patient. Common treatment options include:

Surgery

Surgery is commonly recommended for early-stage cervical cancer to remove cancerous or precancerous tissue. Types of surgical procedures include:

• Conisation: Also called a cone biopsy, this procedure removes a cone-shaped section of abnormal tissue from the cervix. It is typically used for early-stage lesions or precancerous changes.
• Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus and cervix. It may be total (uterus and cervix only) or radical (including surrounding tissues and lymph nodes) depending on the extent of cancer.
• Trachelectomy: This involves removing the cervix while preserving the uterus, making it an option for women who wish to retain fertility.

Surgery is most effective in early-stage cancers and is often followed by monitoring or additional treatments if necessary.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells or shrink tumours. It can be administered as:

• External Beam Radiation: Radiation is delivered from outside the body, targeting the cervix and surrounding tissues.
• Internal Radiation (Brachytherapy): Radioactive sources are placed close to the tumour inside the body, delivering a high dose directly to the cancer cells.

Radiation may be used alone for early-stage cancers or combined with chemotherapy (chemoradiation) for more advanced cases to improve outcomes.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves drugs that target and kill rapidly dividing cancer cells. It is commonly used:

• In combination with radiation (chemoradiation) for locally advanced cervical cancer.
• Alone for recurrent or metastatic cancer that has spread beyond the cervix.

Chemotherapy may be administered orally or intravenously, and treatment schedules vary depending on the patient’s condition.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy focuses on drugs that attack specific features of cancer cells, such as proteins or genes that support cancer growth. This treatment is often used for advanced or recurrent cervical cancer to complement other therapies and improve effectiveness while limiting damage to normal cells.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy helps the immune system recognise and attack cancer cells. It is generally reserved for advanced cervical cancer, especially when standard treatments like surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy are less effective.

Palliative Care

Palliative care is focused on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life for patients with advanced cervical cancer. It can be combined with other treatments to manage:

• Pain and discomfort
• Fatigue and weakness
• Emotional and psychological challenges

Cervical Cancer Prevention: Your Best Defense

Preventing cervical cancer is possible with awareness, regular screenings, vaccination, and healthy habits.

The HPV Vaccine: Your First Line of Protection

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the main cause of cervical cancer. Vaccination against HPV is a highly effective preventive measure, especially when administered before exposure to the virus. The vaccine helps the immune system fight off the virus and reduces the risk of abnormal cervical cell changes. HPV vaccination is recommended for girls and boys in early adolescence, but adults up to a certain age may also benefit.

Cervical Cancer Screening

Regular screening is essential because cervical cancer often develops without symptoms in its early stages. Screening tests such as the Pap smear and HPV test can detect abnormal changes before they turn into cancer. Women should follow the recommended screening schedule based on age and risk factors, and consult their healthcare provider for guidance.

Lifestyle Changes

Certain lifestyle choices can help lower the risk of cervical cancer and support overall cervical health:

• Avoid smoking, as tobacco weakens the immune system and increases cancer risk.
• Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables to support immunity.
• Practice safe sexual habits, including limiting the number of sexual partners and using barrier protection to reduce HPV exposure.
• Stay consistent with routine medical check-ups and follow-up visits after abnormal results.

Combining vaccination, regular screening, and healthy lifestyle choices creates a strong defense against cervical cancer.

Take Control of Your Cervical Health

Cervical Cancer Prevention Week is the perfect time to take charge of your health and make cervical cancer prevention a priority. You can protect yourself by staying aware of early signs, scheduling regular screenings, and considering the HPV vaccine if you haven’t already.

But here’s the key: don’t wait for symptoms to appear, because early-stage cervical cancer often shows no signs at all. That’s why taking proactive action today is so crucial. At Graphic Era Hospital, our team of specialists including cancer doctors and gynaecologists is ready to guide you through screening options, provide vaccination advice, and help you understand the best ways to maintain your cervical health. Take that important first step by booking a consultation at 1800 889 7351, because your health deserves this attention.