Cervical cancer is the third most common type of cancer in females

The Green January campaign aims to raise awareness about the prevention of cervical cancer, a silent disease whose symptoms usually only appear in advanced stages. According to data from the National Cancer Institute (INCA), this is the third most common infection among Brazilian females: in 2023, 17 thousand new cases are estimated for every 100 thousand women.

According to Ugo Vicente, oncology surgeon at the Catandova Oncology Center, cervical cancer is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a virus that is easily transmitted during sexual intercourse. However, it can be avoided.

“The main way to prevent infection with HPV is through vaccination, which is available in the public health network free of charge to girls and boys aged 9 to 14 years, given in two doses. We need to demystify the issue of the HPV vaccine.” And protect our children, who will one day become sexually active. He explains that women and men aged 15 to 45 years who have some special conditions, such as cancer patients, immunocompromised patients, and people infected with HIV, can also be vaccinated against Among other cases.

Most of the time, HPV infection does not cause disease, and the body itself can fight the infection. However, in some cases, cellular changes occur that can develop into cancer over the years. The best way to identify the disease early is through a cytological examination known as a Pap smear, which is a cervical cancer screening method, and is recommended for women between the ages of 25 to 64 years.

“Performing regular preventive examinations is essential for early detection and increasing treatment success rates,” highlights Rodrigo Micheli, also a specialist at the Catandova Oncology Centre.

Green January is awareness month on the importance of prevention and early detection of disease. “Cervical cancer usually does not show initial symptoms, and when they do, it may be an indication of the progression of the disease. In addition to routine examinations, you should pay attention to changes such as unexplained vaginal bleeding, variable discharge, persistent abdominal or pelvic pain, and a feeling of pressure in the abdomen, Frequent urge to urinate and rapid weight loss.