Call for cervical cancer tests

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Qatar Cancer Society (QCS) has launched a month-long drive to create awareness about cervical cancer among women.

The campaign aims to encourage women, especially those over 30, to visit the nearest health centre for early detection tests for free.

The purpose of the drive is also to help remove fear and shyness among target segments of women and convince them to go for tests, said QCS.

All women are at risk of cervical cancer. It occurs most often in women over 30. Cervical cancer occurs when abnormal cells on the cervix grow out of control.

The cervix is the lower, narrow end of the uterus. The cervix connects the vagina (birth canal) to the upper part of the uterus.

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the main cause of cervical cancer. HPV is a common virus passed from one person to another during sex.

At least half of sexually active people will have HPV at some point in their lives, but a few women get cervical cancer.

To encourage women to go for early detection tests for cervical cancer, QCS will organise a programme on January 25 at Grand Hayat hotel.

A team of health specialists will be available to answer questions from the audience related to cervical cancer.

A draw will also be held on the sidelines to provide an opportunity to those women who underwent early detection tests for cervical cancer to participate and win prizes.

The winners will be given three pieces of gold and three diamond rings sponsored by Damas and Malabar jewellery shops. The campaign entitled ‘Inti Gaddaha … Ifhasi’ (You Can … Get The Tests) is being waged as part of the international awareness month for cervical cancer (which is January), said Maryam Hamad Al Naimi, Director-General, QCS.

Cervical cancer is the second most outspreading cancer all over the world. The campaign will focus on key prevention measures, and early detection tests for the disease to prevent it, said Al Naimi. Routine checkups can prevent 90 percent cases of cervical cancer.

Main reasons for cervical cancer are smoking, cervicitis (inflammation of cervix), heredity, giving birth to three or more children, using contraceptive pills, abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain and pain during intercourse, among others, said Al Naimi. To prevent cervical cancer, one can go for an early detection test, quit smoking, take healthy food, maintain a healthy lifestyle and do regular physical exercises.

The best time for taking early-detection tests for cervical cancer is 10th to 14th day from the beginning of monthly course, said Dana Al Mansur.

First screening of cervical cancer is suggested after three years of marriage. Then after each two years until the age of 65.

A woman could stop going for tests if tests conducted in the past five years have been negative.

Tests could be taken in Qatar at a primary health care centre, Women Fitness Clinic.

The symptoms of cervical cancer are visible only at an advanced age, so regular early detection tests are important even if there is no symptoms.