Approximately 190 women in Singapore are diagnosed with cervical cancer every year. Good news is, it can be prevented.
“Cervical cancer is the 10th most common cancer affecting women in Singapore, and those who are most at risk are women in their 40s and 50s.” says Dr. Chia Yin Nin, Gynaecologist and Gynaecologic Oncologist at Gleneagles Hospital, Singapore.
An infection with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common cause for cervical cancer, and is transmitted during sexual intercourse, oral sex, and even anal sex. One in two women who have been sexually active from a young age are exposed to HPV in their lifetime, and are at a high risk of contracting cervical cancer.
One warning sign to look out for is abnormal vaginal bleeding, which point to problems with the cervix or uterus. This includes bleeding in between menstrual cycles, after intercourse, or during menopause.
“Many women do not go for regular screening and only go when they experience symptoms such as pain, abnormal bleeding, abdominal bloating, and indigestion. As symptoms usually appear when the cancer is more advanced, and it may be too late for treatment or treatment may be more complex,” says Dr Chia.
Women who are sexually active are recommended to go for cervical cancer screening with Pap smear and HPV testing. HPV testing helps to increase the rate of detection of cervical precancerous changes, better than Pap smear alone. Regular Pap smear screening can decrease cervical cancer incidence and mortality by at least 80%.
Dr Chia Yin Nin gives advice on the health precautions women in different age groups can take to protect themselves.
If you are in your 20s…
A Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination is recommended for females between 9 and 26 years old. Administered in three doses, the vaccination reduces the risk of cervical cancer by 70-80%.
Once a woman is sexually active, it is advised that she goes for regular screenings in the form of a Pap smear, to be done annually or at least once every three years.
If you are in your 30s…
You can still opt for HPV vaccination, although the efficacy may be lesser for older women. Women in their 30s should focus on going for a HPV testing with a Pap smear annually or at least once every three years.
If you are in your 40s and 50s…
In addition to regular Pap smear and HPV testing, women over 40 should also go for pelvic ultrasound scans. This is done to survey the uterus and ovaries for abnormal growth.
If you have relevant health concerns, are feeling unwell, or are experiencing any symptoms, please consult a doctor. Don’t be shy. You know your body best. Early detection saves lives.
Dr Chia Yin Nin is a senior gynaecologist and one of the few RANZCOG certified gynaecologist oncologist in the region. Besides managing general gynaecological problems faced by women, her forte lies performing in complex gynaecology surgeries and gynaecological cancer surgeries – open, laparoscopic or robotic. She has also performed colposcopy and is an expert in managing preinvasive conditions of the female genital tract.
Call Gleneagles Patient Assistance Centre at the 24-Hour hotline (6575 7575) or email [email protected] and get a specialist appointment within 24 hours.
Gleneagles Hospital, 6A Napier Road, Singapore 258500
This article is sponsored by Gleneagles Hospital.