National Cervical Health Awareness Month January 2025

Introduction

January begins with the hope of new possibilities and resolutions. At the same time every year this month, a part of the population learns about a type of cancer that is serious in its way. More than 11,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year. Approx. 3.4 lakh cases of cervical cancer were estimated in India in 2023. And this situation may get worse if we ignore the symptoms, treatments, and signs. Ultimately before the problem gets adverse one should know about it.

Let’s Begin from Scratch; All About Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that develops when abnormal cells in the cervix grow out of control and form a tumor. It's the fourth most common cancer in women globally.

No need to take stress regarding its treatment, it is curable, diagnosed, and treated at an early stage of the disease.

Symptoms

These are the main peak points one should observe. They are as follows :-

• Vaginal bleeding between periods, after menopause, or after sex
• Vaginal bleeding that is heavier or longer than normal
• Watery vaginal discharge has a strong odor or contains blood
• Pelvic pain or pain during sex
• Frequent or unexplained pain in your lower back
• Weight loss, fatigue, and loss of appetite
• Vaginal discomfort
• Swelling in the legs
• Problems urinating or having a bowel movement
• Blood in the urine

Treatment

One should not be hyper if a few symptoms show up. Here are treatments for cervical cancer that can heal & help an individual get back to normal Cold knife conization uses a scalpel to remove a cone-shaped piece of tissue from the cervix and cervical canal. Sometimes all the cancer can be removed during this procedure. Cold knife conization is done in the hospital under general anesthesia.

Other Than This

• Surgery
• Radiation therapy
• Targeted therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Immunotherapy
• Clinical trials

Also, being vaccinated at age 9–14 years is a highly effective way to prevent HPV infection, cervical cancer, and other HPV-related cancers.

Treatments work as a boon for the diagnosed individuals. But on a serious note, these treatments need time and patience to cope with cervical cancer. This month we should stand together and let everyone support us by acknowledging this cancer and also educating others. This month includes several health observances but at the same time, the most important is Cervical cancer - critical in its own way!

Conclusion

National Cervical Cancer Health Awareness Month 2025reminds us to stay informed and proactive about cervical cancer. While this disease poses a significant health challenge, early diagnosis, and timely treatment can make it highly manageable and even curable. By recognizing the symptoms, encouraging regular screenings, and spreading awareness, we can reduce the impact of cervical cancer on individuals and families.

Stand together this month and let’s educate others about this type of cancer that makes our society more aware !