Poonam Pandey Death: Different Stages To Management- All You Need To Know About Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is triggered by the long-lasting infection caused by high-risk HPVs. While, most clear up on their own, certain high-risk types can persist leading to the formation of cancer cells.   

All You Need To Know About Cervical Cancer- The Illness Poonam Pandey Died Of ( Image Source :Instagram/Poonam Pandey/Getty )

The official Instagram account of actor Poonam Pandey shared a post on Friday stating that the actor has died due to cervical cancer. The statement read: "This Morning is a tough one for us. Deeply saddened to inform you that we have lost our beloved Poonam to cervical cancer. Every living form that ever came in contact with her was met with pure love and kindness. In this time of grief, we would request for privacy while we remember her fondly for all that we shared."

Talking about cervical cancer, India faces a significant issue causing a significant number of morbidity and mortality. It is mainly due to low literacy, inadequate screening infrastructure, and social stigmas. 

Cervical cancer is triggered by the long-lasting infection caused by high-risk HPVs. Most HPV infections clear up on their own without causing any harm, but certain high-risk types can persist and lead to the development of cancer cells.   

"When a high-risk HPV infection persists for many years, it can lead to cell changes that, if untreated, may get worse over time and become precancerous and then cancerous. Adolescents i.e. both boys and girls should be vaccinated before they start their sexual activity," says Dr Sarika Gupta, who is a Consultant, Gynae-Surgical Oncology at Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre (RGCIRC).

Different Stages Of Cervical Cancer

The cancer stage describes how far it has grown and spread in the body at the time of diagnosis. Likewise, a stage for cervical cancer is given by doctors so that they can plan the next therapy.

After a biopsy, i.e. removal of a sample of tissue to assess a subtype of the disease, the doctor does staging using clinical examination and Imaging tests like CT scan, MRI, and PET CT scan. 

Dr Rajeev Vijayakumar, Sr Consultant Medical Oncology, Hemato Oncology & BMT Physician, at Gleneagles Hospitals Bengaluru says: "Stages are depicted from 1 to 4, with 1 being the least spread and 4 being the advanced stage."

Cervical cancer is staged by FIGO (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics) as follows:

Stage 1 - The cancer is confined to the cervix, and has not spread beyond it. 

This is often called “early-stage” cervical cancer. Treatment of stage 1 cervical cancer often includes surgery. 

Stage 2 - The cancer has grown beyond the cervix and uterus, but has not spread to the walls of the pelvis or the lower part of the vagina. It has not spread to nearby lymph nodes.

Stage 3 - The cancer has spread to the lower part of the vagina or the walls of the pelvis. The cancer may be blocking the ureters (tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder). It may have spread to nearby lymph nodes.

Stages 2 and 3 are treated with a combination of chemotherapy and radiation. Duration is approximately 6 weeks and there is a good chance of cure. Surgery is not offered in these stages.

Stage 4 - The cancer has grown into the bladder or rectum, or to other organs like the lungs, liver or bones. The therapy mainly consists of chemotherapy, immunotherapy and radiation. 

Early Detection Of Cervical Cancer:

Cervical cancer screening is crucial for early detection and intervention, significantly improving outcomes. Regular screenings, such as Pap smears and HPV tests, enable the identification of abnormal changes in cervical cells before they progress to cancer. Detecting precancerous lesions allows for timely medical intervention, preventing the development of invasive cancer.

Talking about the importance of early detection, Dr. Vigyan Mishra, Chief of lab -Neuberg Diagnostics, Noida says: "Early detection not only increases the chances of successful treatment but also minimises the need for extensive and invasive procedures."

Routine screenings are essential for women's reproductive health, promoting overall well-being and reducing mortality rates associated with cervical cancer. Emphasising the importance of screenings contributes to public health initiatives, fostering awareness and encouraging proactive healthcare practices.

"Women aged 21 to 65 should undergo cervical cancer screening. Pap smears are recommended every three years, while a combination of Pap smear and HPV test is advised every five years for women aged 30 to 65. Screening initiation may vary based on individual health history, and healthcare providers can offer personalized recommendations," he adds.

Tips To Manage Cervical Cancer

Prevention and management strategies are crucial in reducing its incidence and impact. Here are evidence-based medical perspectives on preventing and managing cervical cancer as suggested by Dr. N. Sapna Lulla, who is the Lead Consultant, of Obstetrics & Gynecology, at Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore.

1. Early Intervention: Treat identified precancerous lesions to prevent progression.
2. Surgical Options: Consider excisional procedures or hysterectomy for advanced cases.
3. Radiation Therapy: Employ radiation for localized disease, tailoring dosage to individual cases.
4. Chemotherapy: Administer systemic chemotherapy for advanced or recurrent cervical cancer.
5. Follow-Up Care: Monitor patients’ post-treatment for potential recurrence, ensuring comprehensive surveillance.

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]