Every 2 Minutes, One Woman Dies from Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer remains one of the most significant threats to women's health worldwide. According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), every two minutes, a woman dies from cervical cancer. Alarmingly, over 90% of the 348,000 deaths reported in 2022 occurred in low- and middle-income countries, including Indonesia.

Cervical cancer is a preventable disease through HPV vaccination and regular early detection efforts to identify precancerous lesions, enabling timely action to prevent progression into cervical cancer. However, limited access to information and healthcare services poses a significant challenge, especially in resource-constrained areas. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to protect yourself and your loved ones from HPV and cervical cancer.
 

1. Protect Yourself: Preventive Measures You Can Take

HPV Vaccination: The Primary Defense

HPV vaccination protects against high-risk types of HPV, such as HPV-16 and HPV-18, the leading causes of cervical cancer. WHO recommends HPV vaccination for both girls and boys starting at the age of 9.

While HPV vaccination is the primary defense, its effectiveness is generally lower for individuals over 26 years old due to factors like prior exposure to HPV in this age group.
 

Regular Screening for Early Detection

Regular screening is essential to detect cervical cell changes before they develop into cancer. WHO recommends HPV DNA testing, which can identify high-risk HPV even before symptoms appear.

In Indonesia, HPV DNA testing is recommended for married women or those who are sexually active, particularly after the age of 30. The government, through the Ministry of Health Decree No. HK.01.07/MENKES/33/2023, supports this test as part of early detection efforts. Regular screening can prevent cervical cancer at its earliest stages.

Read more: How Important Is Early Detection for Cervical Cancer?

Stay Calm and Follow Medical Procedures

If your HPV DNA test results are positive, don’t panic! Testing positive for HPV does not automatically mean you have cervical cancer. Most HPV infections resolve on their own. The key is to follow medical recommendations and continue regular monitoring to ensure cervical health.

If diagnosed with cervical cancer, adhere to the prescribed medical procedures. Numerous tests and treatments are available to help manage the condition. Early detection allows for more effective treatment. The sooner treatment begins, the higher the chances of overcoming the condition. Consult with doctors and medical professionals to receive the best care.
 

2. Support the Cervical Cancer Elimination Policy

Indonesia’s National Action Plan (NAP) for Cervical Cancer Elimination, implemented by the Ministry of Health, is a concrete step toward reducing cervical cancer cases. In the first phase (2023-2027), the government aims to screen 70% of women aged 30-69 using HPV DNA tests. In the second phase (2028-2030), this coverage is expected to increase to 75%, with screening conducted every 10 years.
 

3. Live a Healthy Life and Avoid Risk Factors

Smoking is one of the factors that increases the risk of cervical cancer. Avoid smoking, consume nutritious food, exercise regularly, and maintain an ideal body weight to help your body fight HPV infection. Additionally, practicing healthy sexual habits by using protection, avoiding multiple partners, and delaying sexual activity to a more mature age can reduce HPV exposure risk.
 

4. Be a Support System for Your Family and Partner

Emotional and Practical Support

Besides providing companionship, families play a vital role in supporting patients to maintain their morale during long-term treatments. When a partner or family member undergoes vaccination or screening, emotional and practical support is crucial. Accompany them to healthcare facilities, remind them of examination schedules, and offer motivation.

Your support becomes even more significant if they test positive for HPV DNA or are diagnosed with cervical cancer. The treatment process for cervical cancer often demands a long-term commitment that can drain both physical and mental energy. Moreover, stigma or lack of public understanding about the disease can make them feel isolated. Providing consistent emotional and practical support helps them stay strong, confident, and recover faster overall.
 

Avoid Spreading Unverified Information

Fear and anxiety often trigger the spread of unverified information. Amid concerns about cervical cancer, it is crucial to ensure that the information we share comes from credible sources. Spreading misinformation only adds unnecessary fear and can hinder effective prevention efforts.
 

Open Communication about HPV

Discuss openly with your partner and family about the importance of HPV prevention. Such openness not only helps prevent infections but also strengthens relationships and raises awareness. As a parent, ensure your children understand the importance of HPV vaccination early on so they grow up with the proper knowledge about cervical cancer prevention.

Protecting yourself and your loved ones from cervical cancer is not an impossible task. By taking the right preventive steps, such as vaccination, regular screening, leading a healthy lifestyle, and supporting cervical cancer elimination policies, we can significantly reduce the risk of cervical cancer.

Our active role as individuals, community members, and citizens is vital in creating a healthier world free from cervical cancer. Don’t wait—take protective measures now for a better future for yourself and your loved ones.
 

References

1. American Cancer Society. Causes, Risks, and Prevention: Cervical Cancer Risk Factors. Link

2. Kementerian Kesehatan RI. Kemenkes Canangkan Perluasan Imunisasi Gratis untuk Cegah Kanker Rahim. Link

3. Kementerian Kesehatan RI. National Cervical Cancer Elimination Plan for Indonesia 2023-2030. Link

4. Kementerian Kesehatan RI. Peraturan Menteri Kesehatan No. 2 Tahun 2023 tentang Percepatan Eliminasi Kanker Serviks di Indonesia. Link

5. Mayo Clinic News Network. 4 Ways to Reduce Cervical Cancer Risk. Link

6. National Cervical Cancer Coalition (NCCC). HPV and Relationships. Link

7. World Health Organization (WHO). Cervical Cancer Elimination Initiative: Cervical Cancer Forum. Link

8. World Health Organization (WHO). WHO Updates Recommendations on HPV Vaccination Schedule. Link