Women over 15 years old are at risk of developing cervical cancer. Data from the Indonesian Ministry of Health states that 36 thousand women suffer from this cancer every year.
Apart from that, the death rate from this cancer is also high, namely 21 thousand deaths in 2020. This makes it the largest type of cancer after breast cancer.
The good news is, cervical cancer can be prevented in various ways. On World Cancer Day, which falls on February 4, take a look at several ways to prevent cervical cancer as reported on various health sites.
1. Tes Pap Smear
According to WebMD, a pap smear is a test that functions to detect the presence of abnormal cells that cause cervical cancer. This test procedure is carried out by taking samples of cells around the cervix.
If abnormal cells are found, there will be further treatment from a gynecologist. The sooner these cells are found, the higher the healing rate.
The Pap smear test is recommended for women who have reached 21 years. It would be better if you diligently follow this procedure every three years until you are 65 years old.
2. Vaccine HPV
The main cause of cervical cancer is the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) virus which causes cells in the cervix to become abnormal. This virus can be transmitted through sexual contact.
One way to prevent this is by injecting the HPV vaccine. The World Health Organization or WHO recommends injecting 1-2 doses for women aged 9-21 years. For those aged over 21 years, two doses of vaccine are given six months apart from the first injection.
3. Maintain vaginal health
According to CNBC Indonesia, maintaining the health of the intimate area is mandatory to prevent cancer cells. There are several ways, namely diligently changing sanitary napkins during menstruation and frequently changing underwear, especially during vaginal discharge.
Important note, don't be fooled by advertisements for vaginal cleansing soap, Beauties. Because this soap can harm vaginal health, such as disrupting the pH balance.
4. Healthy Lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is needed to prevent cervical cancer. Starting from consuming vegetables and fruit that are nutritious for the body and avoiding consuming alcohol.
For those of you who smoke, start stopping smoking this stuff. Quoting the WebMD site, many studies show that tobacco products can cause cancer cells in the body and they will grow malignantly.
So, those are four ways to prevent cervical cancer. Prevention is better than cure, right?
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