More than 500 people reached in cancer prevention drive

Summary

Swindon Borough Council’s Public Health team reached more than 500 people in a cervical cancer prevention drive.

Source: Swindon Advertiser on MSN.com

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Q1: What is the primary cause of cervical cancer, and how can it be prevented?

A1: Cervical cancer is primarily caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), with strains HPV 16 and 18 responsible for approximately 70% of cases globally. Prevention includes HPV vaccination, which is the most cost-effective public health measure against cervical cancer, and regular cervical screenings such as Pap tests to detect precancerous changes. As of 2023, 143 countries provided the HPV vaccine in their national immunization schedules for girls, and 47 countries also included boys.

Q2: How does cervical cancer incidence and mortality differ between urban and rural areas in China?

A2: In China, cervical cancer incidence and mortality rates have been rising, with significant geographic disparities. Between 2005 and 2018, the incidence of cervical cancer increased from 9.10 to 18.10 per 100,000 women, with rural areas experiencing a higher average annual percent change (AAPC) of 6.28% compared to 4.54% in urban areas, highlighting disparities in healthcare access. In 2018, there were 46,626 new cases, making cervical cancer the seventh leading cause of cancer deaths among Chinese women.

Q3: What are the common symptoms and risk factors associated with cervical cancer?

A3: Common symptoms of cervical cancer include abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, and pain during sexual intercourse. Risk factors include HPV infection, smoking, a weak immune system, prolonged use of birth control pills, starting sexual activity at a young age, and having many sexual partners. Genetic factors also play a role in increasing the risk of cervical cancer.

Q4: What is the significance of the HeLa cell line in medical research?

A4: The HeLa cell line, derived from cervical cancer cells of Henrietta Lacks, is the most famous immortalized cell line used in medical research. It has been instrumental in numerous scientific breakthroughs, including the development of the polio vaccine, advancements in cancer research, and understanding of cell biology.

Q5: What are the current global trends in cervical cancer incidence and mortality?

A5: Globally, cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer and cause of cancer death in women, with over 660,000 new cases and around 350,000 deaths in 2022. The majority of cases and deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, with 88% of cases and 90% of deaths. In contrast, high-income countries have seen reduced rates due to effective screening programs.

Q6: What strategies are recommended by WHO to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem?

A6: The WHO's Global Strategy to eliminate cervical cancer includes three key interventions: widespread HPV vaccination, regular cervical screenings, and treatment of precancerous lesions and invasive cancers. These measures aim to reduce the incidence rate to below 4 per 100,000 women to achieve elimination.

Q7: What are the survival rates for cervical cancer, and how do they vary based on early detection?

A7: In the United States, the five-year survival rate for cervical cancer is 68%, but outcomes significantly depend on how early the cancer is detected. Early-stage cervical cancer detected through regular screenings has a much higher survival rate compared to cases diagnosed at an advanced stage.