Cervical cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells that starts in the cervix. It is the second most common cancer in women in Kenya.
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Causes Of Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is caused by HPV (Human Papilloma Virus).
Cervical Cancer Risk Factors
Cervical cancer risk factors include the following:
*Smoking tobacco as the risk may be higher in women who smoke. HPV infections last longer and are less likely to resolve in smokers.
Contact us about our Smoking Cessation Program if you smoke. Call 0721 963 156.
*Many sexual partners as this increases the chances of getting HPV.
*Early sexual activity as this increases the chances of getting HPV.
*Having other STIs (sexually transmitted infections) like HIV, herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis as this increases the chances of getting HPV.
*Having a weakened immune system e.g. by HIV combined with having HPV.
*Having a parent who took diethylstilbestrol or DES to prevent a miscarriage might increase the risk.
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Cervical Cancer Symptoms
Cervical cancer does not cause symptoms in the early stages.
However, as it progresses, it causes signs and symptoms like the following:
*Vaginal bleeding after sex
*Vaginal bleeding between the menstrual periods
*Vaginal bleeding after menopause
*Pain during sex
*Menstrual bleeding that is heavier and lasts longer than normal
*Vaginal discharge that is watery or bloody and that has a foul smell
When the cervical cancer spreads from the cervix to other parts of the body, it causes the following symptoms:
*Pelvic pain
*Persistent pain in the lower back
*Feeling very tired
*Losing weight without trying to lose weight
*Swelling in the legs
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Cervical Cancer Screening
Cervical cancer is screened with the following:
*Pap smear test which is usually done from the age of 21 years and repeated after a few years.
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Cervical Cancer Diagnosis
The diagnosis of cervical cancer is confirmed by doing a colposcopy in which the cervix is examined and tissues taken to be examined in the lab.
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Cervical Cancer Treatment
The treatment of cervical cancer includes the following:
*Surgery
*Chemotherapy
*Radiation
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Cervical Cancer Prevention
Cervical cancer can be prevented by doing the following:
*Getting the HPV vaccine as it can reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer.
*Doing regular Pap smears as they detect precancerous conditions which can be treated.
*Practicing safe sex as it reduces your chances of getting HPV and STIs. Therefore use condoms and reduce the number of sexual partners.
To learn more on how to prevent cervical cancer, join our Cancer Prevention Retreats where you will learn the following:
*The protective foods to eat in order to reduce your chances of developing cancer and lifestyle diseases.
*The lifestyle changes to make so as to reduce your risk of developing cancer and lifestyle diseases.
*How to reduce toxins in your environment in order to lower your risk of developing cancer and lifestyle diseases.
Call 0721 963 156 or WhatsApp +254 721 963 156 to book today.
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FAQ
How much is cervical cancer screening in Kenya?
The Pap smear test costs between Ksh 1000 and Ksh 3000.
Can you live a long life with cervical cancer?
Yes, you can because 65 out of every 100 women with cervical cancer can survive for 10 or more years.
How long can you have cervical cancer without knowing?
You can have cervical cancer without knowing for months to years because it is a slow growing tumor.
How much does it cost to treat cervical cancer it Kenya?
The cost of treatment of cervical cancer depends on the cancer stage and ranges from Ksh 100,000 to Ksh 1,000,000.