It is the second most common cancer in women in the world – that of the cervix, is a form of cancer that can be treated successfully thanks to advanced early diagnostic and therapeutic methods. An example of such are laparoscopic and robotic surgical procedures, which are at the service of both patients and doctors, as they facilitate the recovery process and shorten the period of planned treatments after surgery. To find out a little more about what measures women should take to diagnose this disease, we talk to Prof. Yumyuhan Meral Aban from Istanbul University Hospital – Yeditepe University Hospital. She graduated from the medical faculty of Dichle University in Diyarbakır in 1987, and in 1994 she completed her specialization in “Obstetrics and Gynecology” there. In her more than 20 years of practice, she has made numerous publications in international publications, and among the most significant recognitions is her teaching at one of the most prestigious universities in the world – Yale. – What is cervical cancer? This cancer, which is described as a malignant disease, develops in the cervix and is among the most common forms of cancer in women of reproductive age. – What are the risk factors and symptoms for its manifestation? The main risk factors for cervical cancer include starting sex at an early age, having sex with multiple partners, which increases the risk of sexually transmitted infections. There is not enough evidence to support a genetic predisposition to this cancer. The most frequently described symptoms are extramenstrual vaginal bleeding, vaginal discomfort, painful intercourse, painful urination. It is important to know that these symptoms do not necessarily mean that women suffer from cervical cancer, as they can be symptoms of other diseases. It is important to consult an obstetrician-gynecologist if they are present. – How early can a diagnosis be made? At an advanced stage, cervical cancer falls into the category of life-threatening conditions, but it is completely preventable and treatable when diagnosed early. Cytosmear is used and recommended most often as a method for early detection, as well as testing for the presence of HPV (human papillomavirus). Science has long proven the direct connection between infection with the papilloma virus and the development of cervical cancer – over 99% of cases. – Is it contagious? The human papillomavirus, which causes this type of cancer, is sexually transmitted, and because of this, protective measures are recommended during sex. HPV is among the most common viruses worldwide – over 80% of women have it at some point in their lives. – What is the cervical cancer vaccine? It provides an opportunity to prevent cervical cancer and other precancerous changes caused by the different strains of human papillomavirus,but the administration of the HPV vaccine does not mean that preventive measures should not be taken in the future. Regular pap smears are one of the best defenses against cervical cancer. NEWS_MORE_BOX – What are the treatments for cervical cancer? Treatment is determined by the stage of the cancer. It is mostly surgical. When a small area of ​​the cervix is ​​affected, conization is usually undertaken. In an advanced stage, a total hysterectomy with or without removal of the ovaries is reached. Treatment for advanced cervical cancer includes radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy. – Can cervical sores lead to cancer? Most such sores are normal physiological changes. They can turn into precancerous lesions if they are exposed to the HPV virus. Therefore, such sores, discovered during gynecological examinations, must be treated. – What is the difference between cervical cancer and uterine cancer? Uterine cancer occurs on the inner surfaces of the uterus. It is the sixth most common cancer in women. It usually affects women over the age of 55. Among its symptoms are premenopausal and postmenopausal bleeding, as well as difficulty urinating. Risk factors for endometrial cancer are the lack of natural childbirth, late menopause, hormone replacement therapy, polycystic ovarian disease, granulosa cell tumors, and the use of drugs that affect the development of the uterine wall. In some cases, rarer risk factors are a family history of breast and colon cancer. The etiology of the diseases are different – cervical cancer is usually due to cancerous changes in the cells of the cervix after their encounter with HPV, while the causes of uterine cancer are different. – Is pregnancy possible with cervical cancer? It is possible for a woman with undiagnosed cervical cancer to become pregnant. In the early stages of this cancer, women can carry their baby as long as the prescribed procedures to protect the uterus (treatment) are applied. – What are the procedures that are usually prescribed when cervical cancer is diagnosed? These include removing part of the cervix, the upper part of the vagina and the connective tissue around the cervix. The rest of the uterus is reattached to the vagina (anastomosis) after removal of the abdominal lymph nodes. These surgical interventions are carried out in our Yeditepe Hospital, paying special attention to robotic laparoscopic procedures, the aim of which is to spare the uterus and especially the nerve endings around it, in addition to offering greater comfort for both the patient and the surgeon. Traditional surgical methods usually fail to save the nerves that lead to the bladder, making it impossible to avoid postoperative urological problems, including difficulty urinating and long-term catheter use. Surgery to protect the nerveshelps patients return to a normal life without complications and without the need for additional chemotherapy or radiotherapy. For more information about the hospital in Istanbul – www.yeditepehospital.com