January is traditionally a month dedicated to the important issue of cervical cancer, emphasizing the need for preventive measures and early detection among women.
This past week, initiated by the Health Department of the Odesa City Council, medical facilities in the city hosted a day focused on cervical cancer prevention and early detection. Women had the opportunity to undergo free gynecological examinations with cytological testing and receive medical consultations.
As a result of the event, 655 women underwent preventive examinations, of which 495 received cytological tests. During the examinations, 223 cases of reproductive system diseases were identified, including 12 cases suspected of oncology. These patients were referred for further examination and consultation with specialists.
Cytological studies revealed 365 cases of inflammatory diseases, 66 cases of cervical dysplasia at various stages, two cases of oncological pathology, and one case of pre-oncological condition.
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Cervical cancer is one of the most aggressive forms of oncology. However, this disease can be prevented through vaccination against the human papillomavirus (HPV) and regular screenings.
Risk factors for cervical cancer include:
1. Medical — presence of HPV, HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted infections, treatment of cervical dysplasia, family history of cervical cancer.
2. Behavioral and social — early sexual activity, early pregnancy, smoking, prolonged stress, violence, occupational exposure to carcinogens.
Starting January 1, 2025, Ukraine will implement a comprehensive system for the prevention and early diagnosis of cervical cancer, based on modern scientific recommendations. Cervical cancer screening will be included in the list of medical services provided by primary healthcare providers.
Primary prevention involves questioning every five years to identify risk factors among women aged 21–35 during visits to family doctors or obstetrician-gynecologists. If risk factors are identified, the woman will be directed for examination (Pap test or PCR).
Secondary prevention includes mandatory Pap tests or PCR:
- for women aged 30–35 — once every 10 years;
- for women aged 25 and living with HIV/AIDS — once every five years;
- for women aged 21-35 with risk factors — immediately.
If test results are positive, the patient will be referred to an oncologist for further diagnostics and treatment.
According to the Center for Public Health of Ukraine, 99% of cervical cancer cases are caused by HPV. This disease can be effectively prevented through vaccination, which is most effective during adolescence.
In Odesa, an innovative vaccination program for girls and boys aged 9-14 against HPV is funded by the city budget. Vaccination provides effective lifelong protection against oncological and other reproductive system diseases. For consultations and appointments for vaccination, one should contact the pediatrician of the city children's clinic.
