Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women and the easiest to prevent. To raise awareness of this disease, January is designated as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. This provides an excellent opportunity to highlight issues related to cervical cancer and the importance of early and optimized detection.

Dr. Zaki Sleiman, a gynecological and obstetric surgeon, explained that 95% of cases are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection. While there are various types of HPV, not all lead to cancer.

Indeed, Dr. Sleiman affirmed that in the majority of cases, an HPV infection is asymptomatic. If persistent, it can cause abnormalities in the cervical cells that may develop into precancerous lesions and then cancer. If cervical cancer develops, certain symptoms should be a warning, including vaginal bleeding, lower abdominal pain, or pain during sexual intercourse.

To diagnose the disease, a "Pap smear" is performed, which involves collecting cells from the cervix. Subsequently, a cytological examination under a microscope determines if the cervical cells show abnormalities. It also detects potential precancerous lesions to treat them before they develop into cancer. If the cytological exam is positive, further tests like colposcopy and/or biopsy are conducted.

Dr. Sleiman also emphasized that when cervical cancer is detected at an early stage, the chances of recovery are high. Depending on the stage of the disease, different types of treatments are used, such as partial removal of the cervix or hysterectomy, combined with radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

Dr. Sleiman recommended that all women should receive the HPV vaccine at the age of 8. The vaccine, administered in three doses, creates a stronger immune response before adolescence. Additionally, regular Pap smears are important for women to detect potential precancerous lesions and act before the development of cancer.

Dr. Sleiman added that the high cost of the HPV vaccine, which can reach $270, creates a disparity, especially in the current economic crisis. In Lebanon, social security does not cover this vaccine, despite its benefits, particularly in risk prevention.

Moreover, the cost of a Pap smear in Lebanon is relatively reasonable, encouraging Lebanese women to undergo the test. However, the cost of the HPV test is high, leading some women to opt only for the Pap smear.