The oncologist spoke about the causes of cervical cancer in young women

Cervical cancer remains one of the most common oncological pathologies in women, and in recent years the disease has been increasingly diagnosed in patients of reproductive age. Ivan Komar, oncogynecologist at the SM Clinic, told Izvestia about this on June 26.

"In most cases, the development of cervical cancer is preceded by prolonged infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus itself may not manifest itself for years, but gradually cause mutations in the cells of the cervix. That is why regular preventive examinations are crucial for early detection of the disease," Komar explained.

The expert noted that risk factors include early onset of sexual activity, frequent partner changes, refusal of barrier contraception, smoking, chronic pelvic inflammatory diseases, decreased immunity and lack of regular follow-up by a gynecologist.

Precancerous changes in the cervix, dysplasia, are particularly dangerous, in which the structure of the mucosal cells is disrupted. Without timely treatment, dysplasia can develop into cancer.

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"In patients with severe forms of dysplasia, the risk of developing cervical cancer increases tenfold. Therefore, it is extremely important not to ignore the results of screening examinations and to undergo timely treatment when precancerous changes are detected," the oncogynecologist emphasized.

According to Komar, early detection of the disease is difficult due to its asymptomatic course, which is why many young women postpone preventive visits. Regular gynecological examinations, cytological examination of the cervix, high-risk HPV testing and vaccination remain the basis of prevention today.

Modern medicine offers new methods of treating precancerous diseases and early forms of cancer, including photodynamic therapy, an organ—preserving technique that allows for the most targeted treatment of pathological cells.

"For young patients, it is especially important not only to cure a serious illness, but also to preserve their reproductive function. That is why the development of organ—preserving technologies is one of the priorities of modern oncogynecology today," concluded Komar.

Earlier, on April 9, Svetlana Khlynova, associate professor of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Pirogov University of the Russian Ministry of Health, said that during menstruation it is worthwhile to consult a doctor if painkillers from the group of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, diclofenac or ibuprofen do not relieve pain.