Imagine a silent threat building over years, striking hardest in your prime working years. That’s cervical cancer for many women, peaking in risk during the 30-45 age bracket, reveals renowned specialist Dr. Meera Pathak.
In a candid discussion, Dr. Pathak breaks down the science. HPV, transmitted sexually, is the culprit. Most infections resolve quickly in younger women, but by the mid-30s, chronic infections lead to cellular changes detectable only via screening. ‘This is when we see the surge—women aged 35 to 44 account for nearly half of diagnoses,’ she notes.
Lifestyle factors amplify the danger. Smoking doubles risk by impairing cervical cell repair. Multiple partners or early sexual debut heighten HPV exposure. Immunosuppression from conditions like HIV accelerates progression.
Dr. Pathak advocates a multi-pronged approach. Vaccination before first exposure is ideal, targeting ages 9-26. For adults, cytology tests every three years from 21-29, then co-testing with HPV checks from 30 onward. ‘I’ve seen miracles—stage 0 detections turning into full recoveries,’ she shares.
In developing nations, late detection pushes mortality rates sky-high. India’s National Cancer Registry shows cervical cancer as the second most common among women, with peaks mirroring global trends.
The expert’s final word: Arm yourself with facts. Symptoms emerge late—postmenopausal bleeding, discharge, pain. By then, it’s often advanced. Beat the odds by knowing your high-risk window and acting early.