The prohibitive cost and lack of awareness on the benefits of early screening
for cervical cancer are being blamed for the continued high mortality rates of
the disease in some countries, including the Philippines.
The occurrence of the disease has been greatly reduced in developed countries through well-organized screening programs that detect and treat cervical cancer in early stages.
Studies have shown very strong associations between the risk of cervical cancer and factors linked to sexual activity, including early initiation of sexual intercourse, having multiple partners, or having a partner who has had multiple partners. Smoking also poses a risk to having cervical cancer.
Although there is a higher chance to develop cervical cancer later in life, it is the second most common cancer in women under the age of 35. Cervical cancer is more common in developing nations compared to developed nations. Cervical cancer is the 2nd most common cause of cancer death in developing nations.
Accurate screening, early detection, as well as appropriate treatments are the best weapons in reducing the mortality associated with this disease.
