Cleveland Clinic gynaecological oncologist highlights the importance of preventing cervical cancer
3 minutes read
- Gynaecological oncologist Adria Suárez Mora, of Cleveland Clinic, warns that cervical cancer usually advances without symptoms and recommends prevention and regular check-ups.
Cleveland. Cervical cancer remains one of the main threats to women’s health, especially when it is not detected in time.
Dr Adria Suárez Mora, a gynaecological oncologist at Cleveland Clinic, warns that the disease can advance silently, since in its early stages it usually shows no obvious symptoms. “Many women experience no early warning sign at all, which makes prevention and regular check-ups essential,” the specialist explained.
When cervical cancer does start to show itself, the symptoms can include abnormal vaginal bleeding between periods, after sexual intercourse or after the menopause, unusual vaginal discharge, and pelvic pain or pain during intercourse. According to Dr Suárez Mora, these signs should not be ignored. “At any change outside the normal, it is important to see a gynaecologist immediately for a timely assessment,” she said.
The specialist stressed that the Human Papillomavirus, known as HPV, is the main cause of cervical cancer. “High-risk types, such as HPV 16 and 18, are directly related to the development of this disease,” she explained. She added that a persistent infection with this virus can cause changes in the cells of the cervix which, over time, can turn into cancer.
According to the Cleveland Clinic gynaecological oncologist, there are factors that increase the risk of developing cervical cancer, among them not having regular tests such as the Pap smear or the HPV test, smoking, having a weakened immune system, as in the case of women with HIV, as well as starting sexual activity at an early age or having multiple sexual partners. A history of sexually transmitted infections also plays a part.
Prevention, Dr Suárez Mora stressed, is the most effective tool for reducing the incidence of and mortality from this disease. “HPV vaccination, especially in adolescents and young adults, together with regular gynaecological tests, can prevent most cases of cervical cancer,” she said, while also highlighting the importance of using condoms and avoiding smoking.
Finally, the specialist called for awareness and education in women’s health. “Cervical cancer is highly preventable and treatable if it is detected in time. Promoting information, vaccination and regular check-ups can save lives,” concluded Dr Adria Suárez Mora, gynaecological oncologist at Cleveland Clinic, reiterating the need to strengthen a culture of prevention among women.
About Cleveland Clinic
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit multispecialty academic medical centre that integrates clinical and hospital care with research and education. Located in Cleveland, Ohio, it was founded in 1921 by four renowned physicians with a vision of providing outstanding patient care built on the principles of cooperation, compassion and innovation. Cleveland Clinic has pioneered many medical breakthroughs, including coronary artery bypass surgery and the first face transplant in the United States. U.S. News & World Report consistently names Cleveland Clinic as one of the nation’s best hospitals in its annual “America’s Best Hospitals” survey. Among Cleveland Clinic’s 70,800 employees worldwide are more than 4,660 salaried physicians and researchers, and 18,500 registered nurses and advanced practice providers, representing 140 medical specialities and subspecialities. Cleveland Clinic is a 6,500-bed health system that includes a 173-acre main campus near downtown Cleveland, 19 hospitals, more than 220 outpatient centres and locations in southeast Florida; Las Vegas, Nevada; Toronto, Canada; Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; and London, England. In 2020, there were a total of 8.7 million outpatient visits, 273,000 hospital admissions and observations and 217,000 surgical cases across the Cleveland Clinic health system. Patients came for treatment from every state and 185 countries.