Popularize the early screening of cervical cancer

1. What is cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors in women, and its incidence ranks second among female tumors worldwide. The occurrence of cervical cancer is usually related to factors such as human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, multiple sexual partners, smoking, and a weakened immune system. Treatments for cervical cancer include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, etc., and early screening can significantly reduce the incidence and mortality of cervical cancer.

2. Early symptoms of cervical cancer

There are often no obvious symptoms and signs in the early stages of cervical cancer. Patients with endocervical canal type are prone to missed or misdiagnosis because of the normal appearance of the cervix. As the disease progresses, the following manifestations may occur: vaginal bleeding or vaginal discharge, such as bleeding after sexual intercourse, etc. If any of the above symptoms occur, seek medical attention in a timely manner. Many patients are already in the middle or late stages of the disease when diagnosed. Therefore, paying attention to physical condition, detecting abnormalities in a timely manner and seeking medical attention are the keys to preventing cervical cancer.

3. Early screening methods for cervical cancer

Early screening is of great significance for the prevention and treatment of cervical cancer. Through screening, abnormal changes in cervical cells can be detected, and intervention measures can be taken in time to prevent the disease from worsening. Screening methods include cervical smears, HPV tests, and colposcopy.

1. Cytology: including traditional Pap smear and new TCT (thin layer liquid-based cytology) technology. Exfoliated cells are taken from the cervical canal and then examined under a microscope to detect abnormal cells.

2. HPV (human papillomavirus) test: Take cervical exfoliated cells from the cervical canal, and then use molecular biology methods to test HPV. If it is high-risk HPV positive, especially HPV16 and 18 positive, further examination is required to determine whether there is precancerous lesions.

3. TCT+HPV combined testing: For people over 25 years old, TCT and HPV combined testing is recommended, which is the most effective cervical cancer screening method currently recommended. This method can improve the detection rate and reduce the missed detection rate.

4. Colposcopy is a more accurate examination method that assists doctors in making a diagnosis by magnifying the cervix and observing its subtle changes.

4. Precautions for cervical cancer screening

During the screening process, some common problems may arise, such as irregular sample collection and interpretation of test results. To address these issues, we can take the following measures:

1. Before collecting the sample, you need to be careful to clean the vulva and avoid collecting samples during menstruation or immediately after sexual intercourse. When collecting samples, use the collection method specified by the doctor to avoid damaging cervical cells.

2. After receiving the test results, if there are any abnormal indicators, you need to contact the doctor for detailed consultation in time. The doctor will give corresponding suggestions and treatment plans based on the specific situation.

5. Prevention of cervical cancer

In addition to early screening, prevention of cervical cancer requires strengthening sex education and raising women's awareness of sexual health and self-protection. HPV vaccination programs should be promoted to reduce the risk of infection. For women with cervicitis or other gynecological diseases, active treatment should be sought to prevent the condition from worsening.

In short, early screening of cervical cancer is of great significance for the prevention and treatment of cervical cancer. By regularly participating in gynecological examinations, adopting correct screening methods, and paying attention to personal hygiene and preventive measures, the incidence and mortality of cervical cancer can be effectively reduced. At the same time, we must take timely measures to solve the problems that may be encountered during the screening process to ensure the health and life safety of women. (Li Yue, Nursing Department, Nanbao Development Zone Hospital, Tangshan)