The Silent Crisis in Indian Women’s Health Cervical Cancer

Expert Insights by Dr. Anbarasi Kumaresan
MD, DMRT, Senior Consultant Radiation Oncologist

Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women in India. It is also one of the most preventable cancers when detected early. However, many women continue to be diagnosed at advanced stages, where treatment becomes difficult and survival outcomes are reduced.

Women between 35 and 45 years face a higher risk of late diagnosis due to gaps in routine health checkups. This makes cervical cancer screening extremely important during this phase of life.

Cervical Cancer in India Key Facts

• India reports over 127,000 new cervical cancer cases every year
• Nearly 80,000 women die annually due to cervical cancer
• Early detection through screening can prevent most cases
• Women in rural and underserved areas face higher risk due to limited access and awareness

These facts highlight the urgent need for regular cervical cancer screening in India.

The Missed Decade in Women’s Health 35 to 45 Years

The period between 35 and 45 years often sees reduced interaction with healthcare systems. After childbirth, routine medical visits decline, while menopause related care begins later. This creates a long gap in preventive care.

During this phase

• Preventive gynecological screenings are often missed
• Pap smear and HPV testing are delayed
• Early cervical cell changes remain undetected

This gap contributes significantly to late stage cervical cancer diagnosis.

Why Cervical Cancer Is Detected Late

Several factors lead to delayed diagnosis of cervical cancer

• Reduced gynecological follow ups after maternity care
• Early stage cervical cancer often shows no symptoms
• Low awareness and fear around reproductive health
• Limited screening access in rural and low income areas

Together, these factors allow the disease to progress silently.

What Causes Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is mainly caused by persistent infection with Human Papillomavirus.

• High risk HPV types 16 and 18 cause most cases
• Long term HPV infection leads to abnormal cervical cell changes
• Without treatment, these changes may progress into cancer

Regular screening helps detect these changes early and prevent cancer.

Cervical Cancer Symptoms to Watch For

• Cervical cancer may not show symptoms initially. As it progresses, women may notice
• Unusual vaginal discharge with odor
• Bleeding between periods or after menopause
• Bleeding after intercourse
• Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse
• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Persistent lower back pain
• Difficulty passing urine or blood in urine

Women experiencing these symptoms should seek medical advice immediately.

How Cervical Cancer Can Be Prevented

Cervical cancer prevention is possible through timely screening and awareness

• Regular Pap smear tests and HPV screening
• Continued screening after childbirth
• Follow up visits after maternity related care
• Screening methods like visual inspection with acetic acid where resources are limited
• Open discussions to reduce stigma around women’s health

Early screening detects precancerous changes before cancer develops.

Why Screening Between 35 and 45 Matters

The age group of 35 to 45 is a critical window for prevention

• Cervical abnormalities can be detected early
• Treatment is simpler and more effective
• Survival rates improve significantly

Cervical cancer should be seen as a preventable disease, not a silent killer.

Final Message

Every woman deserves the chance to detect cervical cancer early, consult a specialist and receive timely treatment.

Own your health. Get screened. Stay protected.
Prevention starts with you.