By Dr. Frank Bonfils Persson, a medical oncologist as well as a radiation oncologist from the Vaal Triangle:
March 2025 is CANSA Cervical Cancer Awareness Campaign
In South Africa the two most common cancers in woman are breast cancer and cervical cancer. Cervical carcinomas fall into the category of “most curable cancers”, where stage 1 and stage 2 cervical cancer is almost 100% curable, so early detection is imperative.
What and where is the cervix? Anatomically the cervix is situated in the pelvis and is the lower narrow end of the uterus.
With sexual intercourse we infect the cervix with a Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). There are 45 variants of which type 16 and 18 as well as 30 and 31 are deemed the most dangerous. With the cervical cells being infected there is a gradual deterioration of the normal cells where the cells can change from normal cells to metaplastic/dysplastic and ultimately cancer itself.
Fortunately, a simple pap smear performed by your Gynaecologist, GP or nursing sister can detect these changes early.
Symptoms can include abnormal bleeding between menstruations; Vaginal bleeding and discharge; Dyspareunia (painful sexual intercourse); and Heavier and longer menstrual cycles. Risk factors include HIV infection; Risky sexual behaviour; Obesity; Alcohol; Poor nutrition; and Smoking.
What are the recommendations? From the day you become sexually active, a pap smear is mandated minimally every 3 years. If risky sexual behaviour and HIV positive, consider doing a pap smear more often, possibly yearly.
What is also important is to consider vaccinating your daughter and son against the HPV virus.
Treatment: Depending on the severity of the changes in the cells, consider monitoring, cauterization, conization (surgical removal of the cervix). Hysterectomy (where the whole womb is removed) and ultimately chemotherapy/radiation therapy, if needed.
Do not forget about the other gynaecological cancers such as ovarian and endometrial, to name a few. Specifically, ovarian cancer is considered the most lethal female cancer. Of importance is symptoms awareness, which can include: Persistent bloating; Difficulty in eating; Pelvis abdominal pain; Increased abdominal size; and Urinary symptoms. Endometrial cancer is a less common gynaecological cancer in the developed world, yet there is an increase in South Africa. The overall risk of endometrial cancer in South Africa is 1 in 146.
To conclude, women must not ignore any symptoms and apply body awareness. Do not skip pap smear appointments or any other recommended tests by your GP or Gynaecologist. Early detection can save your life.
* Information provided by Dr Frank Harry Bonfils Persson
Clinical Radiation Oncologist
MBBCH FC Rad (Onc) Mmed Rad (Onc) B.Sc
Please visit www.oncologysasolburg.co.za for more information
Discover a new horizon in cancer care at Netcare Vaalpark Hospital, Sasolburg. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Frank Bonfils-Persson, with a quarter-century of oncology experience, we offer hope and healing. Our full-spectrum services, from advanced treatments to compassionate hospice care, are accessible to all, thanks to our partnerships with all major Medical Aid Schemes. Choose Netcare Vaalpark Hospital, where your health journey is honored, and your well-being is our mission.
Contact Details:
F.P. Oncology – Clinical & Radiation Oncologists.
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016 004 0179 / 016 414 4183
