13 hours Ago By Kate Lally
A specialist is highlighting four "red flag" symptoms as potential indicators of cervical cancer. According to estimates from the American Cancer Society, around 13,360 new cases will be diagnosed in 2025, with around 4,320 women predicted to die from the disease over the same timeframe. A staggering 99.
8% of these instances can be prevented, and early detection significantly increases survival chances. Knowing what signs to look for is crucial, meaning you can seek medical attention as soon as possible. Cervical cancer occurs in the cervix, the passage forming the lower part of the uterus, extending into the vagina.
Experts at John Hopkins say the cancer can be prevented by HPV vaccination, routine cervical cancer screening, and follow-up treatment. Patient Claim Line’s Litigation Executive, Alexandra Penk, has released advice on what the red flag symptoms of cervical cancer. She previously told the Liverpool ECHO warning signs include: "Pain or discomfort during sex, vaginal discharge and pain in the pelvis.
"Another common symptom that we hear about is unusual vaginal bleeding such as bleeding between periods, during or after sex and at any time after your menopause. Ultimately, not everyone diagnosed with cervical cancer will display symptoms, so it’s crucial to attend regular cervical screening assessments. "Cervical screening tests for HPV are known more commonly as a 'smear test'.
The nurse will take a sample of cells from the cervix using a small, soft brush and will send the sample to a laboratory." A John Hopkins article adds: "For women who have had the HPV vaccine (at the recommended ages), there is still a low risk of cervical cancer since the vaccine prevents most but not all types of HPV, so some screening is still needed, though not as frequently." If you suspect you may have cervical cancer, and/or have worrying symptoms, you should make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible.
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