Cervical Cancer Screening: A Preventive Gynecological Approach

An Awareness Initiative by Chettinad Super Speciality Hospital

Do you know that every 8 minutes, a woman in India dies due to cervical cancer? While this statistic is alarming, the encouraging truth is that cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when detected early through regular screening and timely gynecological care.

January is observed as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, and at Chettinad Super Speciality Hospital, we believe that awareness, prevention, and early detection form the cornerstone of women’s health. Cervical cancer screening is not merely an oncology concern it is an essential part of routine gynecological wellness that every woman should prioritize.

Understanding the Cervix: A Key Aspect of Women’s Reproductive Health

The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. It plays a vital role in menstruation, fertility, pregnancy, and childbirth. Due to its location and exposure to hormonal changes and infections, the cervix is susceptible to cellular changes, particularly those caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

Most cervical cancers develop slowly over many years, beginning with precancerous changes in cervical cells. These early changes usually cause no symptoms, which is why regular screening is critical. Detecting these changes early allows gynecologists to intervene before cancer develops.

Why Cervical Cancer Screening Is Essential

From a gynecological perspective, cervical cancer screening is a preventive health measure, not just a diagnostic test. Many women assume that screening is only necessary if symptoms are present, but this is a common misconception.

Regular screening helps to:

● Detect precancerous cervical changes early

● Prevent progression to invasive cancer

● Reduce the need for extensive treatment

● Preserve reproductive and overall health

● Save lives through early intervention

At Chettinad Super Speciality Hospital, cervical screening is integrated into routine women’s health check-ups, emphasizing prevention rather than treatment alone.

Screening Tests Available for Cervical Cancer

There are three primary screening tests used to evaluate cervical health. Each test has its own clinical value, and the choice depends on age, risk factors, and gynecologist recommendation.

1. Conventional (Regular) Pap Smear Test

The Pap smear is one of the most widely used and time-tested cervical screening methods.

Procedure:
 During a pelvic examination, a speculum is gently inserted to visualize the cervix. A wooden spatula is used to gently scrape cells from the surface of the cervix. These cells are then smeared onto a glass slide, which is fixed and sent to the laboratory for microscopic examination.

What it detects:

● Abnormal cervical cells

● Precancerous changes

● Inflammatory or infectious conditions

Advantages:

● Simple and cost-effective

● Widely accessible

● Proven to reduce cervical cancer mortality

While effective, the accuracy of a conventional Pap smear depends on proper sample collection and slide preparation.

2. Liquid Based Cytology (LBC)

Liquid Based Cytology is a more advanced and refined form of cervical cytology, increasingly preferred in modern gynecological practice.

Procedure:
 A cytobrush along with a slightly wider brush is placed into the cervix to collect cells from both:

● The endocervix (inner cervical canal)

● The ectocervix (outer surface)

Instead of smearing the cells on a slide, the brush is placed into a jar containing a liquid preservative medium. The sample is then sent to the laboratory, where it undergoes processing to remove mucus and debris before examination.

Advantages:

● Improved sample quality

● Clearer visualization of cells

● Lower chances of inadequate samples

● Ability to use the same sample for HPV testing

At Chettinad Super Speciality Hospital, Liquid Based Cytology offers greater diagnostic accuracy, ensuring reliable screening results for patients.

3. HPV DNA Test

The HPV DNA test focuses on detecting high-risk strains of the Human Papillomavirus, which are responsible for the majority of cervical cancers.

Procedure:
 Cervical cells are collected using a brush and placed into a liquid medium. In the laboratory, molecular testing is performed to identify the presence of HPV genetic material (DNA).

What it detects:

● High-risk HPV infection

● Risk of future cervical cell abnormalities

Clinical importance:
 Most HPV infections resolve naturally. However, persistent infection with high-risk HPV types significantly increases the risk of cervical cancer. Identifying such infections early allows gynecologists to monitor patients closely and intervene when necessary.

HPV DNA testing is particularly recommended for women above 30 years and can be used alone or in combination with cytology (co-testing).

Choosing the Right Screening Method

There is no single test that suits every woman. Screening recommendations depend on:

● Age

● Sexual history

● Medical and gynecological history

● Risk factors

At Chettinad Super Speciality Hospital, gynecologists provide personalized screening advice, ensuring that each woman receives the most appropriate and effective test.

Addressing Common Concerns and Myths

Many women delay or avoid screening due to fear, embarrassment, or misinformation. It is important to know that:

● Cervical screening is a quick outpatient procedure

● It is usually painless or causes minimal discomfort

● It is performed in a safe, private, and respectful environment

● Early screening can prevent major health complications

A Commitment to Preventive Women’s Healthcare

Cervical cancer screening reflects a broader commitment to preventive gynecology. When combined with regular health check-ups, HPV vaccination, and patient education, screening becomes a powerful tool to safeguard women’s health.

At Chettinad Super Speciality Hospital, our gynecology team is dedicated to empowering women with knowledge, early detection, and compassionate care—ensuring healthier lives for today and the future.

Cervical cancer is preventable.
 Early detection saves lives.
 Regular screening is essential.

This Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, take a proactive step toward your health. Schedule your screening and encourage the women around you to do the same.https://www.chettinadhospital.com.

Contact Us

Chettinad Super Speciality Hospital
Chettinad Health City, Kelambakkam, Chennai – 603103

Call: +91-9551900900

WhatsApp: +91 90948 68000

Website: www.chettinadhospital.com
Email: cssh@chettinadhospitals.com

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