Preventing cervical cancer is through vaccinating against HPV, regular screening tests, and consulting the doctor if you experience any symptoms. Here, we will discuss how it is treated and the various treatment methods for cervical cancer.
How is cervical cancer treated?
The cure or treatment of cervical cancer depends on several factors. These factors include the progression of the disease, metastasis, etc. The chances of survival increase with early detection and a favourable response to cancer treatment.
The treatment method for cervical cancer will depend on the size of the tumour, type of cervical cancer, stage of cancer, location, spread as well as other comorbidities.
A treatment regime is curated through a multidisciplinary approach curated by different types of doctors who work together and create a combination of different types of treatments.
The treatment protocol usually includes surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. The doctor will work with you to create a treatment plan that’s best for you after explaining the treatments, benefits and side effects.
What are the various treatment options for treating cervical cancer?
The treatment methods usually include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy.
Surgery
Usually, surgery is the option for early-stage cervical cancer. The type of surgery depends upon the size of the cancer, its stage and whether one wants to get pregnant later. There are various surgical options, such as-
- Surgical removal of the entire cancerous tissue.
- Trachelectomy or surgery to remove the cervix.
- Hysterectomy or surgery to remove the cervix and uterus.
Radiation
Radiation therapy uses high-powered energy beams, such as X-rays or protons, to kill cancer cells. Usually, radiation is the preference as post-surgical removal to limit the spread of cancer or prevent a recurrence. Mainly, there is a combination of radiation therapy and chemotherapy as the primary treatment for locally advanced cervical cancers. The types of radiation therapy most often used to treat cervical cancer are External beam radiation and Brachytherapy.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a procedure that uses anti-cancer drugs, which are injected into a vein or given orally. These drugs then get into the bloodstream and kill the cancer cells. Sometimes, there is an administration of low doses of chemotherapy along with radiation therapy for locally advanced-cervical cancer to enhance the effects of the radiation. However, in advanced cases, your doctors may recommend higher doses of chemotherapy.
Targeted therapy
Targeted therapy is a type of cancer treatment which focuses on proteins that control the growth, division and spread of the cancer cells. Usually, it is combined with chemotherapy. It may be an option for advanced cervical cancer.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a drug treatment that helps your immune system in fighting cancer. It helps in boosting the immune system so that it can find and attack cancer cells.
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