Advanced Stage Cervical Cancer Cases on the Rise

Cervical cancer affects the lower part of the uterus, and early stages may lack symptoms, emphasizing the importance of routine pap smears. Symptoms, when present, include post-sex bleeding, pelvic pain, and bloody vaginal discharge. Dr. De Bernardo stresses that cervical cancer is preventable, often linked to HPV, a sexually transmitted infection. Testing for HPV and vaccination, available for ages 11 to 45, play vital roles in prevention.

A recent study reveals an almost 80% increase in cancer diagnoses among those under 50 in the last three decades. With approximately 13,000 new cases and 4,000 deaths annually, the need for further investigation and preventive measures is evident.