Cervical Cancer Awareness

As we begin a new year, it is critical to raise awareness on health issues that affect women all around the world. Cervical Cancer Awareness Month occurs every year in January, and it is a time to educate and empower people about the risks, prevention, and early diagnosis of cervical cancer. This is an excellent time for university students to prioritise their health and well-being. We will discuss the significance of cervical cancer awareness among university students as well as prevention techniques.

Cervical cancer is a form of cancer that starts in the cells of the cervix, the lower section of the uterus. It is largely caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection. While HPV is common, not all strains cause cervical cancer. However, certain high-risk varieties can produce cervical alterations that can progress to cancer over time.

University is a period of discovery, growth, and education. However, it is also a time when students may engage in risky behaviours, such as unprotected sexual engagement. Cervical cancer can grow over time, making early adulthood an important time for prevention.

Preventive measures

1. Vaccination :

Encourage students to think about getting the HPV vaccine. The vaccination is most effective when given prior to any sexual activity, making it an important preventive measure for young adults. Encourage students to talk to their doctors about immunisation alternatives.

2. Routine tests :

Remind students, particularly women, of the necessity of getting Pap smears on a regular basis. Early detection with routine screenings can discover abnormalities before they progress to cancer.

3. Safe Sexual practices :

Through regular condom use, emphasise the necessity of practicing safe sex. Encourage honest discussion with sexual partners regarding their sexual health and history.

4. Health Education :

Universities should hold educational seminars on cervical cancer, its causes, and prevention methods. These sessions may include conversations about healthy lifestyle choices, smoking, and other risk factors.

5. Self Awareness :

Encourage students to be health-conscious by promoting self-awareness. Encourage youngsters to be aware of their bodies, to report any strange symptoms, and to seek medical attention when necessary.

Awareness in Campus

1. Health centre

Ensure that university health centres provide cervical cancer resources, such as immunisations, screenings, and support services.

2. Campaigns

Use posters, social media, and university newsletters to launch educational campaigns. To make the content more approachable and meaningful, include facts, statistics, and personal tales. Share informative messages, visuals, and data about cervical cancer on social media channels. Encourage your friends to share their experiences or views in order to build a helpful online community.

3. Screening Programmes

Encourage and actively participate in cervical cancer screening programmes on campus or in the community. Encourage your classmates to take advantage of these opportunities. In the UK, Cervical screening (a smear test) is a test used to assess the health of the cervix and aid in the prevention of cervical cancer. It is available to those with a cervix aged 25 to 64 years.

Cervical Cancer Awareness reminds students to prioritise their health and well-being. We can help lessen the effect of cervical cancer by staying informed, pushing for preventive measures, and actively participating in awareness programmes. Let us empower ourselves and others to make educated decisions that will lead to a healthy future for all.

Suggested further reading for more information : 

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cervical-cancer/

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cervical-cancer?gclid=Cj0KCQiAnfmsBhDfARIsAM7MKi3t9oGp2GTqUMpxDLA-qIH1FTW2u9734mPpk3UUz5EUduopJMui4nUaAstdEALw_wcB

https://ocrahope.org/get-the-facts/types-ovarian-cancer/cervical-cancer/?utm_source=google_cpc&utm_medium=ad_grant&utm_campaign=cbc_ggrant_womens_cancers&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAnfmsBhDfARIsAM7MKi0jkH1Acopuj1ZRTJZ2VN_3Knq_q4MIibN9q17WEJETCfkLCOBTqbYaAkanEALw_wcB

https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/cervical-cancer

https://www.cdc.gov/healthequity/features/cervical-cancer/index.html



For support at your accomodation and further information :

https://www.instagram.com/reslife_covuni/