We spend countless hours checking our social media, messages, and outfits. But how often do we check what truly matters?
Cervical cancer is preventable. Because it often shows no early symptoms, regular screening and HPV vaccination are essential for early detection and protection.
Your health matters. Understanding cervical cancer and how to prevent it can help protect you and the people you love.
Cervix Structure and Function
The cervix is part of the female reproductive system. It is a small, strong, muscular organ located at the lower end of the uterus (womb).
The cervix:
- Connects the uterus to the vagina (birth canal)
- Plays an important role in menstruation and childbirth
What Is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cervix. It is an abnormal and uncontrolled growth of cells in the cervix and it can invade other organs and spread throughout the body.
- Cervical cancer grows slowly and takes years to develop. Normally it takes 15–20 years for pre-cancer cells to become cancer, and 5–10 years for women with a weakened immune system.
- All women are at risk of developing cervical cancer, but it is often diagnosed in younger women in their 30s.
- It is highly curable if diagnosed and treated at an early stage.
Cervical Cancer by the Numbers
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the leading risk factor for cervical cancer, responsible for about 95% of all cases.
It usually clears out on its own, but if the HPV infection in the cervix is not cleared by your immune system and is left untreated, it can lead to cervical cancer.
Risk Factors of Cervical Cancer
While HPV is the primary cause, other factors can increase your risk:
What to Watch For: Signs & Symptoms
Cervical cancer usually has no symptoms in the early stages. Symptoms tend to appear when the cancer has reached an advanced stage.
- Unusual vaginal bleeding or spotting (between periods, after intercourse, or after menopause).
- Longer and heavier periods.
- Unusual vaginal discharge.
- Persistent pain in the pelvis, legs, or back.
- Pain during intercourse.
- Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or loss of appetite.
How to Prevent Cervical Cancer?
The Power of the HPV Vaccine
The HPV vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect against the HPV types that cause most cervical cancers and other related cancers.
It helps boost your immune system so your body can fight off different strains of HPV, even if you are exposed later in life.
Important to Know
The HPV vaccine prevents infection; it cannot treat an existing HPV infection or cervical cancer. This is why it is recommended to be given to individuals, ideally before intimacy and potential exposure to HPV.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
- All females from 9 to 26 years of age should be vaccinated against HPV.
- It is also recommended for boys under 15 years.
Vaccination Schedule
HPV Test and Screening
If you meet the eligibility criteria, you should have an HPV test every 5 years.
Get screened for the HPV test if you are:
- Aged 25 to 65 years old.
- Symptom-free (not experiencing symptoms of cervical cancer).
Screening packages are available through the IFHAS program to all Thiqa cardholders (25–75 years old) in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.
Call your nearest healthcare provider for an appointment
- PureHealth (SEHA Clinics, Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, Al Dhafra Hospitals, Al Rahba Hospital, Tawam Hospital)
- M42 (HealthPoint, HealthPlus)
- NMC Healthcare
- Mediclinic Middle East
- Burjeel Holdings
- Reem Hospital
- Advanced Care Diagnostic Center
- Health Way Medical Center
- Global Care Hospital