Chennai: Indus Health Plus – a pioneer in preventive healthcare has revealed a study on Cervical Cancer in India based on the checkups conducted from April 2020 to January 2022 (5000 females). The aim was to bring light and create awareness around the rising incidences of cervical cancer. The study showed that 17% of females had a suspicion of malignancy and some of them were required a biopsy or further confirmatory tests to finalize the diagnosis. They have been recommended to seek urgent consultation with a gynecologist.
Besides that, 17 % were detected with some fungal or bacterial infection/inflammation which also required treatment and proper management and 6% were found with mild inflammation which required further follow up. Even in case of a normal result, it is advisable to repeat the test once in 3 years or in case of any symptoms like abnormal vaginal bleeding, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, pelvic pain etc. The study was conducted based on Pap smear test which is a method of screening used to primarily detect premalignant or malignant cells in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus in females. It can also detect any infections or inflammation of the cervix. Later stages diagnosis involve multiple lines of treatment increasing the cost considerably and the disease at an advanced stage poses a far greater risk to health and the symptoms are usually more severe decreasing the quality of life to a very big extent.
Showing concern on the scenario, Mr. Amol Naikawadi, JMD & Preventive Healthcare Specialist, Indus Health Plus said, “Cervical cancer ranks as the 2nd most frequent cancer among women in India and the 2nd most frequent cancer among women between 15 and 44 years of age. Every year, many women suffering from cervical cancer succumb to it due to late detection or lack of healthcare facilities. It is very important to build awareness and empower women to take precaution as it is a huge burden on an individual’s financial and mental status. Cancer diagnosis is a huge impact on a person’s emotional well-being and affects the entire family. And to be specific to cervical cancer, it can cause a lot of anxiety as it affects the patients personal, social, and family life as well. To lessen the chances of getting cervical cancer, it is important to maintain hygiene and get yourself vaccinated against HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) that causes cervical cancer.”
| Pap smear Status | Female (percentage) | |
| Normal | 77% | |
| Borderline | 6% | |
| Abnormal | 17% |
In addition, Indus Health Plus has been driving initiatives with a mission to create awareness in the Indian society around preventive healthcare measures against all types of cancers. Early detection and commencement of early treatment improves the chances of cure, reduces treatment cost, improves the quality of life, and prolongs longevity. Indus’ health awareness initiatives encourage people to adopt a healthy lifestyle.