Why is Cervical Cancer Screening Important for Women?

Why is Cervical Cancer Screening Important for Women?

       Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers among Thai women. However, there is no need to panic—early detection can lead to effective prevention and timely treatment. This article will guide you through the essentials of cervical cancer screening, helping to enhance treatment opportunities and improve quality of life.

What is Cervical Cancer Screening, and Why is it Important?

       Cervical cancer screening acts as the first line of defence against this life-threatening disease. It enables early detection, allowing for prompt intervention. Here’s why screening is vital for all women:

        All Women Are at Risk
         Some may believe they are not at risk if they are young, have no high-risk behaviours, or are otherwise healthy. The truth is that every woman is vulnerable to cervical cancer. Screening is essential as it detects cellular changes that may lead to cancer at an early stage.

        Cervical Cancer Has Severe Consequences
         This form of cancer significantly impacts health and daily life. It can cause intense pain and become difficult to treat if it progresses. Moreover, the disease can spread to other organs, complicating treatment further. Early screening helps prevent the disease from reaching this advanced and severe stage.

        Cervical Cancer Often Shows No Early Symptoms
         One of the most concerning aspects of cervical cancer is its asymptomatic nature during the initial stages. By the time symptoms emerge, the disease may already have advanced, making treatment more challenging. Screening is the only reliable way to detect the disease before symptoms appear, allowing for immediate action.

When Should Women Begin Cervical Cancer Screening?

       The frequency of screening depends on age and risk factors. According to recommendations from the National Cancer Institute, women should begin screening at age 30, although screening can start as early as 25 if deemed appropriate. Regular screenings every 2–3 years are advised, and combining screening with an HPV test is highly recommended for comprehensive protection.

Types of Cervical Cancer Screening

       Pap Smear
       The Pap smear is a traditional screening method where cervical cells are collected and examined under a microscope to identify abnormal changes. This early detection method increases the chances of successful treatment. However, factors like infection, inflammation, or bleeding can sometimes affect test results.

       ThinPrep
       ThinPrep is an advanced version of the Pap smear. It uses a specialised solution to collect cells, ensuring even distribution on slides. This technique improves accuracy by reducing clumping and enabling clearer identification of abnormal cells. ThinPrep is currently a more precise and popular method.

       ThinPrep Plus HPV DNA
       ThinPrep Plus HPV DNA testing combines ThinPrep technology with the detection of human papillomavirus (HPV), the leading cause of cervical cancer. This comprehensive method assesses the risk of developing the disease with high precision, making it the most effective option for screening and prevention.

Prioritise Regular Cervical Cancer Screenings

       Regular cervical cancer screening is essential for every woman to ensure timely treatment if needed. Consider annual screenings at reputable facilities equipped with comprehensive, high-standard programmes. Additionally, HPV vaccinations can be administered as part of a preventive strategy.

For more information or to schedule a cervical cancer screening, contact Samitivej Chonburi Hospital at 033-038924.