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Undergo regular check-ups to prevent cervical cancer

The Health Authority – Abu Dhabi (Haad) is urging all girls and young women between the ages of 15 and 26 years to get vaccinated against the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), the virus associated with cervical cancer.

The Haad also called upon women between 25 and 65 years who are or have been married to undergo a Pap smear test — one of the most reliable and effective cancer screenings that looks for changes in the cervix that might become cancer if left untreated — at least once every three to five years.

According to Haad data, cervical cancer is the fifth leading cancer in females in Abu Dhabi, with nationals accounting for 39 per cent of cases and an average diagnosis age of 47.

“Married women need to realise that they are all at risk of cervical cancer and that if they do not get regular screening to detect pre-cancer and the earliest stages, the cancer to become advanced and will reduce the chances of cure. The fact is, cervical cancer is easily preventable and simple regular screenings can save lives,” Haad said.

According to Haad, there are several myths about cervical cancer preventing women from seeking immediate medical attention. Common misconceptions are if a woman has no family history then she is not prone to the disease, or if she has no symptoms then she does not need to get checked. It is also believed that the cervical smear test, also called a Pap smear, is a painful procedure.

A Pap smear or Pap test is a quick, painless procedure that can detect pre-cancerous cell changes in the cervix that might become cervical cancer if they are not treated on time. The results form the basis for effective preventive treatment and also reveal other conditions such as infections or inflammation.

Cervical cancer is a cancer of the lower, narrow end of the uterus. The disease is neither genetic nor hereditary; more than 99 per cent of cases are attributable to the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).

The HPV vaccine is available in more than 24 healthcare facilities across the Abu Dhabi Emirate. Women can also book their Pap smear screening appointments through www.haad.ae/simplycheck/appointment.

The Haad’s awareness efforts focusing on cervical cancer form part of its ‘Live Healthy and Simply Check’ awareness campaign that runs through March. The initiative will share knowledge and encourage behaviours that reduce the risk of developing cancer and emphasise the importance of regular screenings to minimise the risk of cancer-related deaths.

news@khaleejtimes.com