January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. It aims to raise awareness about the disease, its causes, regular screening and the HPV vaccine. Dr. Manan Gupta, Chairperson and HOD Obstetrics and Gynecology, Elantus Healthcare, shares, “Cervical cancer is a major health problem affecting women worldwide. Unfortunately, widespread myths about the disease persist. And misconceptions can delay early detection, prevention, and treatment. It’s important to raise awareness and challenge these myths.” Dr. Gupta debunks five popular misconceptions about the disease.
Myth 1: Cervical cancer is hereditary.
One of the most common misconceptions is that cervical cancer runs in families like breast or ovarian cancer. Dr Manan Gupta says this is not true.
Elaborating further, the doctor says, “Cervical cancer is not hereditary; it is caused by long-term infection with human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a sexually transmitted infection, and cervical cancer Understanding that HPV infection, not genetics, is the primary cause of cervical cancer can help women take proactive measures for prevention, such as vaccination and regular screening.”
Myth 2: Cervical cancer only affects older women.
Another widespread belief is that cervical cancer mainly occurs in older women. While it’s true that the risk increases with age, Dr. Manangupta says cervical cancer can affect women of any age, including teenagers and young adults.
“HPV infection, the main cause of cervical cancer, can occur soon after sexual activity begins. Therefore, it is important for women of all age groups to be screened for cervical cancer starting in their teens,” Dr. Educate about prevention and get regular check-ups.”
Myth 3: Cervical cancer detection is painful.
Fear of painful procedures often prevents women from early detection of cervical cancer. Contrary to this myth, detecting cervical cancer is straightforward and usually painless, says Dr. Manangupta.
Elaborating further, the doctor says, “The most common test, the Pap smear, involves collecting cells from the cervix for examination. It’s a non-invasive and quick procedure, making most women less is less painful. Early detection by Pap smears has saved countless lives by identifying early changes before they turn into full-blown cancer.”
Myth 4: Cervical cancer cannot be prevented.
Some believe that cervical cancer is inevitable and cannot be prevented. This is far from the truth. “The most important development in the fight against cervical cancer has been the development of the HPV vaccine,” emphasizes Dr. Manangupta.
“The vaccine provides strong protection against the most common strain of HPV that causes cervical cancer,” says Dr. More. Regular pap smears, healthy lifestyle, and safe sex practices can also help prevent cervical cancer.”
Myth 5: Using condoms can completely prevent HPV infection.
Although condom use is an effective way to reduce the risk of many sexually transmitted infections, it does not provide complete protection against HPV.
“HPV can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, meaning areas not covered by condoms can still be at risk,” says Dr. Vaccination is the best way to prevent it. Safe sex practices combined with vaccination and regular screening are essential for comprehensive protection.”
Dr. Manangupta shared, “We strongly advocate for increasing awareness of cervical cancer. Educating women, dispelling misconceptions, and promoting preventive measures have significantly reduced the burden of this disease. I urge every woman to consult her health care provider about HPV vaccination. Remember, prevention and early detection save lives.”