On the occasion of Cervical Cancer Awareness Month in January, Egekent Hospital Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist Prof. Dr. Mehmet Emin Soysal made statements.
Prof. Dr. Mehmet Emin Soysal stated that cervical cancer ranks 4th among the most common cancers in women worldwide, saying, “Cervical cancer is preventable and treatable as long as it is detected early and treated effectively.”
The most common symptoms of cervical cancer are irregular, abnormal vaginal bleeding between menstrual periods or after sexual intercourse. Symptoms of cervical cancer tend to appear only when the disease reaches an advanced stage.
Regarding cervical cancer screening, he said: “Screening should begin at age 21 in sexually active women. Screening tests should continue at appropriate intervals until at least age 65. For women who have undergone a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) with no abnormalities related to the cervix, screening can be discontinued. Between the ages of 21 and 29, a pap smear test should be performed every 3 years. After age 30, HPV-DNA and pap smear tests should be performed together every 5 years. Alternatively, a pap smear test alone can be done every 3 years.”
Finally, Prof. Dr. Mehmet Emin Soysal advised women to maintain a strong immune system through a balanced diet, adequate sleep, regular screenings, and a smoke-free life.