Cervical cancer prevention week takes place from January 23 to 29, 2025. The opportunity to recall the main cause of the disease (which occurs in 99% of cases), and the most effective way to combat it, according to a gynecologist.
Do you know thata simple preventive measure can reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer by 90% ? In France, around 3,100 new cases are diagnosed each year, and around 1,100 women die from it every year. As prevention week, which takes place from January 23 to 29, 2025, approaches, an expert is sounding the alarm on a silent but formidable enemy: the human papillomavirus (HPV). According to her, this virus is responsible for more than 9 out of 10 cases of cervical cancer. A striking figure, but also a source of hope. We’ll explain it to you.
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Dr Susanna Unsworth, gynecologist and expert for Intimina, wants to warn women about cervical cancer: “More than 99% of cervical cancers are caused by high-risk HPV genotypes, including HPV16 and HPV18.”she maintains. These two strains represent 70% of cases. But, good news: solutions exist. Between vaccination, screening and prevention: here, according to the specialist, are the keys to protecting yourself and your loved ones.
Cervical cancer, an avoidable cancer thanks to prevention?
Since its introduction, the HPV vaccine has revolutionized the management of cervical cancer. While there is still some distrust regarding its undesirable side effects, a study published in The Lancet noted a 90% reduction in cancers among vaccinated young women. “The vaccine targets nine high-risk strains, including the most dangerous. In women born after 1995, cervical cancer is almost eradicated,” explains the doctor.
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In France, vaccination is offered free of charge from fifth grade for girls and boyswith catch-up campaigns up to 19 years old, or even 26 years old for certain men. But be careful, vaccination is not enough: “Even vaccinated, women must continue regular screenings,” insists the specialist.
-The 3 pillars of the fight against cervical cancer: vaccination, screening and education
When it comes to prevention, the smear remains an essential pillar. It allows lesions to be identified early before they become cancerous (also pay attention to this unsuspected symptom). However, many women neglect this step: in France, almost 40% of women have not been screened for three years, according to health.gov. However, innovative solutions are emerging. In the United Kingdom, self-tests or digital reminders are, for example, being considered to simplify the process. “France could take inspiration from these initiatives to encourage more women to be screened,” believes the gynecologist.
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According to Dr Unsworth, lack of information is a major obstacle. Some women avoid screening out of fear or lack of knowledge. “Many fear a positive result or fear that it will impact their sex life,” she laments, before emphasizing that, by explaining the benefits of screening and vaccination, it is possible to reduce these fears and break taboos. According to her, prevention is thus based on three pillars: vaccination, screening and education. By combining these efforts, a future without cervical cancer could be within reach. “Women are not alone. Thanks to medical advances and the support available, they have the power to act,” she concludes.
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