Cervical tumors are abnormal growths on the cervix and are often linked to cervical cancer. The most effective way to screen for cervical cancer is through routine Pap smears. Treatment depends on the stage of cancer, with early diagnosis leading to better chances of success. Routine gynecological care and screening are important for all women.
A cervical tumor is a tumor, or abnormal growth, on the cervix and is a condition that primarily indicates cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is the second type of cancer in women, behind breast cancer. A cervical tumor results from abnormal cell growth and has been linked to the human papilloma virus, for which there is now a vaccine for some strains. Cervical cancer can be detected with a laboratory test that examines cervical cells obtained through a gynecological procedure called a Pap smear.
Like other types of cancer, cervical cancer is organized according to characteristics. Staging depends on whether a cervical tumor has formed and whether or not the tumor is confined to the cervix alone or has metastasized to other areas of the vagina or pelvis.
The most effective way to screen for cervical cancer is through routine Pap smears. While not all women receive routine screening, those who do have a better chance of early diagnosis and treatment. Many women are fearful of abnormal cervical pap smear results, but doctors generally order a second test within three months to confirm an abnormality since other factors can contribute to abnormal results.
Without cervical screening, women may not be aware that they have cervical cancer until the cancer has reached a later stage and symptoms such as abnormal vaginal bleeding or pain are not present. The presence of a cervical tumor that has formed and grown can be detected with a cervical physical exam.
Treatment of a cervical tumor may include surgical removal, radiation or chemotherapy, or a combination of all three. Treatment largely depends on the stage at which the cancer is diagnosed. While the survival rate of stage I is significantly higher than in the later stages, recurrences are common and typically occur within two years. However, early diagnosis leads to getting cervical cancer in its early stages of formation and significantly improves the chances of treatment success and minimizes treatment evasion. In some cases, a radical hysterectomy is required and may also require radiation and chemotherapy.
The average age for cervical cancer to develop is 50, although younger women are still at risk. Routine gynecological care and screening for breast and cervical cancer, even after menopause, are important for all women. Girls should see a gynecologist early in puberty and parents should talk to their pediatrician, GP or gynecologist about the HPV vaccine.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
