Beware of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is the growth of malignant cells in the cervix that develop slowly from a distinct precancerous stage. There are two classifications, preinvasive - confined to the surface of the cervix and invasive - spread into deeper layers and organs. Symptoms may not appear until the cancer reaches the invasive phase, which is more dangerous. Typical symptoms are abnormal vaginal bleeding between periods, after intercourse, or menopause. Women may also experience heavier and lengthier monthly periods, persistent, unusual vaginal discharge, and back and abdominal discomfort. In later stages, after the cancer has spread, females will lose weight and a loss of appetite along with other symptoms. The cause of cervical cancer is a mystery, but risk factors include youthful sexual activity, multiple sexual partners, multiple pregnancies, and a history of sexually transmitted diseases, including smoking. Infections with certain varieties of the human papilloma virus (genital warts and herpes) have a strong association with cervical cancer.

There is a new vaccine offered to young girls and women to hopefully cease cervical cancer, however, females must take preventive measurements if sexually active. You may be sexually monogamous with your partner; however, if your partner is promiscuous and repeatedly infects you with STD's, your risk becomes greater. All sexually active women should have a pap smear once a year to detect cancerous cells or other cervical disorders that are nonmalignant such as cervical eversion, cervicitis, cervical polyps, and cervical dysplasia. Upon diagnosis, cervical cancer can be treated by cauterization (burning cancer cells). Surgery such as a hysterectomy, removal of the bladder and rectum, and radiation and chemotherapy, is used if the cancer has spread to other organs. There are other treatment options available. With early detection and treatment, long term prognosis is extremely favorable. There is no antidote for cancer except the healings of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Remission is defined as - a temporary recovery from an illness, therefore doctors cannot claim to have cured the cancer. Women must be very observant of their bodies, because the cancer will resurface with a deadly vengeance, demolishing your organs. Cervical cancer is an opportunistic infection of AIDS, so women and girls take care of your temples. Amen.

Tips taken from Maureen O'Sullivan, Senior Writer, of The Johns Hopkins Complete Home Guide to Symptoms & Remedies