Understanding Cervical Cancer: Causes, Statistics, and Early Warning Signs

The recent tragic death of 32-year-old actress Poonam Pandey due to cervical cancer has prompted a closer look at the causes and warning signs of this prevalent disease. The Union Health Ministry’s emphasis on vaccination, particularly for girls, echoes the urgent need for awareness and prevention. In India, women face a 1.6 percent lifetime cumulative risk of developing cervical cancer, with an annual toll of 80,000 new cases and 35,000 deaths. The Serum Institute’s CERVAVAC and MSD Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd’s Gardasil 4 offer vaccination options, each priced differently in the market.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), cervical cancer is primarily caused by prolonged infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV), responsible for 95% of cases. The WHO advises women to be vigilant for warning signs such as unusual bleeding, vaginal discharge, persistent pain, weight loss, fatigue, and swelling in the legs. Early detection plays a crucial role, as abnormal cells can take 15–20 years to develop into cancer, a process expedited in women with weakened immune systems.