Emakakaelavähki

Emakakaelavähk is the Estonian term for cervical cancer. It is a type of cancer that occurs at the lower, narrow part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. The vast majority of cervical cancers are caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a very common virus, and most sexually active people will contract it at some point in their lives. In most cases, the body's immune system clears the infection, but in some instances, HPV can cause cell changes that can lead to cancer over many years.

Risk factors for developing cervical cancer include HPV infection, a weakened immune system, smoking, long-term use of oral contraceptives, and having multiple full-term pregnancies. Symptoms may not appear until the cancer is advanced and can include abnormal vaginal bleeding, such as bleeding after intercourse, between periods, or after menopause. Other potential symptoms include pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, and unusual vaginal discharge.

Early detection is crucial for successful treatment. Regular cervical cancer screening, such as Pap tests and HPV tests, can detect precancerous changes and early-stage cancers when they are most treatable. These screening methods are widely available and recommended for women starting from a certain age. Treatment options depend on the stage of the cancer and can include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Prevention through HPV vaccination is also a highly effective strategy to reduce the incidence of cervical cancer.