Cervical cancer is preventable, but its detected late in most cases; 8 reasons that explain why

The late detection of cervical cancer is mainly because people are ignorant about it. (Picture Credit: Canva)

• Low awareness and screening cause late cervical cancer detection in India.
• HPV infection causes most cervical cancers, but vaccine awareness remains low
• Early detection and regular screening can prevent and cure cervical cancer

Did our AI summary help?

Even though it is one of the most preventable cancers across India, Cervical cancer is diagnosed late among numerous women. Low levels of public knowledge and screening coverage along with delayed presentation remains a major cause of its high burden, suggesting pressing demands for better preventive and early detection measures.

Cervical cancer is one of the few types of cancers that is highly preventable and can also be cured when diagnosed at an early stage. Given the availability of accurate screening tests like Pap smears, HPV testing and the HPV vaccine, burden from this disease should be rare. However, cervical cancer remains a significant public health problem globally, especially in low- and middle-income countries. It is the second most frequent cancer in women in India, where it is usually detected at an advanced state and has a poor prognosis.

The late detection of cervical cancer is mainly because of ignorance about the condition, poor accessibility to regular screening, social stigma and disregard of initial warning symptom, says Dr Kunjal Lila, Head of Department and Consultant in Surgical Pathology, Metropolis Healthcare Ltd.

Enhancing the awareness of prevention, popularizing screening on common basis and seeking earlier medical treatment are necessary for reducing the incidence of cancer and cancer death.

1. HPV: A preventable cause that often slips through the cracks

Almost 99% of cervical cancer infections are accounted for by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).

That makes cervical cancer susceptible to primary preventive strategies by HPV vaccines.

However, lack of awareness and poor utilization mean that this window is often missed.

2. Progressing slowly but evading early detection

Cervical cancer takes a lot of time to develop, starting from precancerous epithelial changes (CIN) to invasive cancer.

The slow progression rate makes it highly effective for screening with a Pap smear and an HPV test.

However, many women never test for it, and this allows the disease to progress unnoticed.

3. The early disease may be asymptomatic

Early cervical cancer is typically symptom-free or has non-specific symptoms.

Discharge or bleeding that isn’t normal can be ignored or deemed as normal symptoms of pregnancy, often accompanied by symptoms of irregular bleeding or very

Due to this, women only go to the hospital once the disease has progressed.

Also read: Doctor says these 3 medicines can save a heart attack patient

4. Inadequate screening in rural, resource-poor communities

Screening infrastructure in the form of Pap smear and HPV testing equipment is not available in rural setups.

Women have to travel long distances to reach screening centers, which is a logistical problem.

5. Socio-cultural and economic barriers

Cultural stigma, fear of diagnosis, and embarrassment have generally prevented most women from undergoing screening.

Lack of decision-making powers, particularly for women from lower socioeconomic groups, further limits access

Lifestyle factors: "Women often prioritize family needs over personal health, especially when family budgets are tight."

6. Reliance on opportunistic screening

India follows the opportunistic screening method, where women are screened for diabetes whenever they come to the hospital for any reason.

This approach misses high-risk women in comparison to population-based se

There will be no organized programs because of:

• Low screening rates
• Poor follow-up of abnormal results
• Precancerous lesions that are not yet

Also read: Dilbert creator Scott Adams dies of prostate cancer at 68; All about the causes, symptoms and how to prevent this cancer in men

7. Lack of awareness regarding HPV vaccines

Many parents, as well as young women, are unaware that there is an HPV vaccine.

Before engaging in sexual activity is when the vaccine works best. Unfortunately, because of a lack of knowledge and misunderstandings, this very key stage is many times overlooked.

8. Delayed medical consultation

In certain situations, women first seek care from traditional medical practitioners and by the time patients reach healthcare facility, cancer will be at an advanced stage.

Cervical cancer continues to be one of the major challenges for the health systems of India; it is not because it cannot be prevented, but because it has still not gained the needed awareness or acceptance in terms of provision to prevent it by either vaccinations or screening programs.

FAQs on cervical cancer:

1. What is cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer develops in the cells of the cervix, which connects the uterus to the vagina.

2. What is the main cause of cervical cancer?

Persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV).

3. What are early symptoms of cervical cancer?

Early stages often have no symptoms; later signs include abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, and pain during intercourse.

4. How can cervical cancer be prevented?

HPV vaccination, regular screening (Pap smear or HPV test), safe sex practices, and avoiding smoking.

5. Is cervical cancer curable?

Yes, especially when detected early, with treatment options such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.