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The devastating impact of late-stage cervical cancer on patients and their families is a reality that many healthcare professionals have witnessed. However, cervical cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer when detected early through regular screening.

Regular cervical cancer screening is much more than mere medical check-ups; they are life-saving measures that empower women to take control of their health.

Cervical cancer screening is a cornerstone of preventive healthcare, and at M I O I C we are committed to bridging the gap in access, awareness & screening to ensure every woman has the opportunity to safeguard her future.

Why are regular cervical cancer screenings important?

Cervical cancer develops slowly, often over a period of years. Before cancer forms, precancerous changes occur in the cervix, which can be easily detected and treated during screenings. The Pap Smear and HPV tests are two primary methods of screening.

1. Early Detection Saves Lives: When detected at an early stage, cervical cancer has a survival rate of over 90%.1 Regular screenings help identify precancerous changes, enabling timely intervention before they progress to cancer.
2. Through Awareness: Screening is not just about detecting cancer; it’s about preventing it. By identifying high-risk HPV infections and other abnormalities, doctors can provide preventive care, significantly reducing the risk of cervical cancer.
3. Reducing Healthcare Costs: Treating cervical cancer in its advanced stages is not only more challenging but also far more expensive. In that context, early diagnosis turns out to be a cost saving measure.

Challenges in accessing regular screenings

In India, cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women. Despite the availability of effective screening methods, several barriers limit their utilization:

• Lack of Awareness- Many women are unaware of the importance of cervical cancer screenings or the recommended guidelines for their frequency.
• Cultural Stigma- Taboos surrounding discussions of reproductive health often discourage women from seeking preventive care.
• Limited Access in Rural Areas- Healthcare infrastructure in rural India is often inadequate, making it difficult for women in these regions to access screening facilities.
• Financial Constraints- For economically disadvantaged families, preventive screenings may not be a priority, even though they are a cost-effective approach in the long run.

Who should get screened and when?

Guidelines from the World Health Organisation recommend the following for cervical cancer screening:

• Ages 21-29: Pap smear every 3 years.
• Ages 30-65: Pap smear and HPV testing every 5 years, or only the Pap smear every 3 years.
• Above 65: Screening may be discontinued if prior results have been normal, but this should be discussed with your doctor.

Women with higher risk factors, such as a family history of cervical cancer or a compromised immune system, may require more frequent screenings. There is an advanced method; Liquid Based Cytology (LBC) available for cervical cancer screening. It can also be deployed for the cause.

Closing the care gap with M I O I C

At M I O I C, we recognize the critical role regular screenings play in preventing cervical cancer and saving lives. Our commitment to closing the care gap involves promoting awareness, providing accessible screening facilities and comprehensive care for those already detected with cervical cancer. Our mobile breast and cervical cancer screening initiative under MOC Cancer Care Foundation is already outreaching places to spread awareness and screen women, especially those underprivileged as a small contribution to the bigger cause.

By making regular cervical cancer screenings more accessible and empowering women with knowledge, M I O I C aims to change the narrative around cervical cancer in India. Prevention and early detection are not just medical strategies—they are acts of empowerment that give women the chance to lead healthier, fuller lives.

Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Schedule your cervical cancer screening today—it’s a simple step toward a healthier tomorrow.

Dr. Tushar Patil
MD DM
Consultant Cancer Physician
MOC Cancer Care & Research Centre, Swargate & Kalyani Nagar