Cervix common cancer among women: Doctor

THE most common cancer among women in the country is that of the cervix, says a doctor.
Professor Apeawusu Amoa, a senior gynaecologist at the Port Moresby General Hospital and a lecturer at the School of Medicine and Health Sciences, was addressing a regional cancer workshop in Rabaul, East New Britain, on Friday.
Amoa, who has been working as a gynaecologist for more than 30 years, said cancer of the cervix, ovaries, vulva, vagina and breasts affected women in the country.
“The most common cancer in all the women is the cancer of the cervix. It is followed by the cancer of the ovaries, womb, vagina and vulva,” he said.
“These cancers are related to a virus called the Human Papiloma Virus (HPV).”
He said it was important to go for early screening and treatment.
“The early the detection, the easier the treatment,” he said.
“If the cancer develops, it becomes late for treatment.
“The treatment for stage one cancer is relatively very simple and very straight forward.”
He said early symptoms of cervical cancer included abnormal bleeding from the vaginal tract and unusual discharge from the vagina.
“We want women to come immediately for check up when they realise these symptoms,” Amoa said.
“We want people to be aware of how serious cancer is.
“The earlier we diagnose them, the better the outcome. All cancers are treatable.”
Amoa said a combination of treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy and radiation would cure the early stages of cancer.
Cervical cancer affects women as young as 22.
“Women who have sex are susceptible to cancer,” Amoa said.
“The HPV is transmitted through sexual intercourse.”