Cervical cancer affects the cervix, which is located in the lower part of the uterus. According to the American Cancer Society, 12,820 cases of this disease were diagnosed in 2017. Fortunately, most of these cases are caught early enough to be treated successfully. Since the disease has many risk factors and symptoms that are often associated with other illnesses, the team at at Alaska Oncology and Hematology, LLC in Anchorage wants their community to understand the basics of this form of cancer.

What Are the Symptoms?

Symptoms of cervical cancer usually don’t emerge until the disease has progressed into the advanced stages. Common signs include:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Pelvic pain
• Vaginal discharge
• Pain during sex

What Are the Treatment Options?

There are several cancer treatment options available. Your oncologist’s recommendation will depend on several factors, such as the stage of your cancer and other health issues that might complicate the treatment. 

Surgery

When cervical cancer is in the early stages, it’s generally treated surgically. Minimally invasive options include cryosurgery, in which a cold metal probe is inserted into the cervix to freeze abnormal cell; laser surgery, which uses targeted heat application to remove abnormal cells; and conization, in which a cone-shaped tissue sample is removed and examined for cancerous cells. In severe cases, the uterus, or parts of it, may need to be removed through a process known as a hysterectomy.

Radiation

Radiation therapy destroys cancer cells with high-powered energy beams. It can be administered externally or internally. During external therapy, the beams are aimed from outside the body. This method is often used in conjunction with chemotherapy. When a patient undergoes internal therapy, the laser beam is aimed only at the affected area. 

Chemotherapy

This cancer treatment method uses drugs to kill off dangerous cells. The medication can be taken orally or intravenously. Chemotherapy is sometimes combined with radiation therapy to improve the efficacy of both treatments. Chemo may also be used if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

Can Cervical Cancer Be Prevented?

There are several steps you can take to lower your risk of developing this disease. Women are advised to undergo routine Pap smears, as this test is designed to look for abnormal and precancerous cells. Teenagers and young women should receive the HPV vaccine series to minimize the risk of contracting the virus that is commonly associated with cervical cancer. Healthy lifestyle choices like quitting smoking and using condoms during sex can also reduce your chances of being diagnosed with this disease.

If you have recently been diagnosed with cervical cancer, the experts at Alaska Oncology and Hematology, LLC will guide you through your treatment options. These oncologists provide valuable information for patients and their caregivers as well as individualized care plans and integrative therapy in a comfortable setting. Call (907) 279-3155 or visit their website for more information about what to do after receiving a diagnosis.