There is an urgent need to spread awareness about breast and cervical cancer as cases are rising in the country, gynaecologist Komal Kulkarni said in Dharwad on Sunday.
Cases of certain types of cancers like breast and cervical cancer have been rising in the recent years across the country. There is a need for creating awareness about their prevalence, detection and possible control, Dr. Kulkarni said.
She was delivering a special lecture on cervical cancer awareness organised as part of International Women’s Day by Karnatak College and the Women Doctors Wing of the Indian Medical Association.
She said that cervical cancer accounts for 27% of cancer cases among women in India, while globally, 73% of women are affected by it.
She spoke of the importance of raising awareness among students about breast and cervical cancer. She used data to explain the adverse effects of cervical cancer, ways to prevent it and the need to recognise its symptoms.
Among other things, cervical cancer can be caused by early sexual activity, smoking, tobacco consumption, the use of contraceptives and HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection.
Fortunately, there are vaccines to prevent cervical cancer caused by HPV infection. They an be administered to girls and women. Those aged between 9 and 14 need two doses, while women aged between 15 and 45 should take three doses of the vaccine, she said.
Hostel welfare officer S. Annapurna asked girls to speak up about their health issues. She noted that women often keep their health concerns private, which can lead to complications. She encouraged them to share their concerns with close ones.
Published – March 10, 2025 07:50 pm IST
