Oncologist Urges Yearly Cervical Cancer Screening for Women of Reproductive Age
Dr. Adediran Ademola, an Oncologist from the Oncology Department of the University of Osun Teaching Hospital, has emphasized the importance of yearly cervical cancer screening for women of reproductive age. He stressed that regular screening is essential to determine one’s cervical cancer status and can significantly contribute to early detection and lifesaving interventions.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Osogbo, Dr. Ademole discussed the causes, management, and treatment of cancer. He noted that early detection of cervical cancer is pivotal in improving patient outcomes.
Cervical cancer, a global health concern, is the second most common cancer worldwide and the fourth in West Africa. Dr. Ademola emphasized that many patients in this region present at advanced stages of the disease, making early detection crucial.
Several factors contribute to the risk of cervical cancer, including high-risk sexual behavior and having multiple sexual partners. Additionally, cervical cancer can result from hereditary factors, environmental influences, and the effects of global warming.
The signs of cervical cancer can vary by age, and for women of reproductive age, they are often challenging to detect without screening. To address this, Dr. Ademola recommended yearly cervical cancer screening. He highlighted that certain indicators, such as a post-menopausal woman experiencing unexpected menstruation or a woman who has given birth to multiple children, should prompt screening.
The oncologist underlined that the survival rate for cervical cancer patients largely depends on the timing of diagnosis. He mentioned that treatment options for cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and others.
Dr. Ademola noted the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 95-95-95 plan, which aims to ensure that by 2030, 95% of women are aware of cervical cancer, 95% are screened, and 95% are receiving or on treatment.
He praised the Federal Government’s launch of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine for girls aged nine to 14 years on October 24. The vaccine is a critical preventive measure against cervical cancer.
In conclusion, Dr. Ademola suggested that if the government could subsidize the costs associated with cervical cancer management, it would greatly improve survival rates among patients.
