"Shocking Truth Revealed: The Silent Killer Among Women! Learn Why Cervical Cancer is Deadlier Than You Think!"

The recent demise of actor-model Poonam Pandey due to advanced cervical cancer, following a governmental initiative to vaccinate girls aged 9-14 against the disease, has shed light on its significant impact and detection challenges.

Pandey, renowned for her role in the 2013 film 'Nasha', was diagnosed with late-stage cervical cancer, as confirmed by her manager.

Cervical cancer, primarily transmitted through sexual activity, targets the cells lining the cervix, the lower part of the uterus connecting to the vagina. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the primary cause, often transmitted asymptomatically during sexual contact.

The disease's insidious nature complicates early detection, contributing to alarming fatality rates in India. Dr. Raj Vardhan, OSD Chairman of Noida International Institute of Medical Sciences and Hospital, highlighted the challenge of cervical cancer going unnoticed during its initial stages, leading to delayed diagnoses and adverse outcomes.

In India, cervical cancer ranks as the second most prevalent cancer among women after breast cancer, predominantly affecting middle-aged women. In 2022 alone, India recorded 123,907 cervical cancer cases, resulting in 77,348 fatalities. Notably, India bears the highest burden of cervical cancer in Asia, trailing only China, according to a Lancet study.

Detecting cervical cancer proves challenging due to the prolonged 10-15 year span between HPV infection and cancer development. Dr. Vandana Jain, Head of Gynaecology at Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre (RGCIRC), explained that while 80-90% of sexually active women may carry HPV, the immune system typically clears the virus within two to three years. However, persistent infection, especially with high-risk strains like HPV 16 and 18, can precipitate cervical cancer.