Cervical Cancer

          Most cases of cervical cancer are caused by infection with Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which is transmitted through intimate contact or sexual activity.Cervical cancer is one of the cancers that women can prevent almost completely through HPV vaccination at an early age and regular screening, such as the Pap Test or HPV DNA Test, even when there are no abnormal symptoms.Detecting cervical abnormalities at the precancerous stage allows timely treatment and significantly improves outcomes.

Important Facts Thai Women Should Know

          Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among Thai women after breast cancer. Every day, an average of 10–12 Thai women die from this disease. This is a concerning statistic because cervical cancer is largely preventable.Although cervical cancer is most commonly found among women aged 35–50 years, the number of newly diagnosed cases among women under 30 years old has been increasing. This trend is associated with risk behaviors and limited access to regular screening.

          The risk factors that contribute to cervical cancer are mainly related to HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection and factors that prevent the body from naturally clearing the virus. Persistent HPV infection can lead to precancerous changes and eventually develop into cervical cancer.

1. Sexual Health Risk Behaviors

          Since HPV is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact or contact with mucous membranes in the genital area, the following behaviors can increase the risk of HPV infection:

• Early sexual activity (before the age of 18) The cervical cells of adolescents are still undergoing development and maturation, making it easier for the virus to enter and establish infection compared with fully mature cervical tissue.
• Having multiple sexual partners or partners with high-risk behaviors The more frequently sexual partners are changed, the greater the chance of exposure to high-risk HPV strains, particularly cancer-causing HPV types 16 and 18.
• Not using condoms Although condoms do not provide 100% protection against HPV (because the virus can spread through skin contact in surrounding areas not covered by condoms), they can reduce the amount of virus transmitted and help prevent other sexually transmitted infections that may contribute to inflammation.

2. Behaviors That Weaken the Immune System

          Under normal conditions, the body can naturally clear HPV infection within 1–2 years. However, certain behaviors may reduce the body’s ability to fight the virus.

• Heavy smoking Nicotine and carcinogenic substances in cigarettes can accumulate in cervical mucus, weakening local immune defenses and accelerating the transformation of HPV-infected cells into cancer cells. Smokers may have approximately twice the risk compared with non-smokers.
• Neglecting overall health care Insufficient sleep and chronic stress can weaken overall immune function, making it more difficult for the body to control viral infections.

3. Failure to Take Preventive Measures / Screening

• Not receiving cervical cancer screening (Pap Smear / HPV DNA Test) This is one of the most dangerous risk behaviors because cervical cancer typically develops slowly, often taking 5–10 years from initial infection to cancer progression. If abnormalities are detected during the precancerous stage, they can usually be treated effectively. However, without regular screening, many patients only discover the disease after it has already advanced.
• Not receiving HPV vaccination Especially among children and adolescents before sexual activity begins, avoiding HPV vaccination means missing the opportunity to build one of the most effective protective measures against cervical cancer. HPV vaccination can prevent more than 90% of HPV-related cervical cancers when appropriately administered.

4. Additional Risk Factors

• Multiple pregnancies and childbirths (more than 5 births) Statistics suggest that this may be associated with repeated hormonal changes and repeated injury to cervical tissue.
• Long-term use of hormonal contraceptives (more than 5 years) Some studies suggest that prolonged use may slightly increase cervical cancer risk. Women should consult their healthcare provider to evaluate individual risks and benefits.

What Symptoms Should Be Considered Abnormal and Require Medical Evaluation?

          In most cases, early-stage cervical cancer causes no symptoms. However, women should consult a gynecologist promptly if they experience any of the following:

• Abnormal bleeding Bleeding after sexual intercourse  Spotting between menstrual periodsBleeding after menopause
• Abnormal vaginal discharge Foul-smelling discharge  Blood-stained discharge  Watery discharge resembling “meat-washing water”
• Symptoms of advanced disease  Severe lower abdominal pain  Leg swelling  Blood in the urine

Prevention and Treatment Technology: Protection for Modern Women

          Today, advanced technologies allow cervical cancer prevention to be easier and more accurate than ever before.

• 9-valent HPV Vaccine The latest HPV vaccine covering 9 HPV strains. It can prevent more than 90% of cervical cancers caused by HPV and also protects against genital warts.

• HPV DNA Test  A molecular-level test that detects the genetic material of HPV and identifies high-risk HPV strains even before abnormal cervical cell changes occur. It provides greater sensitivity compared with traditional Pap Smear screening.

• Colposcopy & LEEP  If abnormal screening results are found, doctors can use:

          Colposcopy — a magnified examination of the cervix to identify abnormal areas.

        LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure) — removal of abnormal cervical tissue using a thin electrically heated loop. These procedures can effectively treat precancerous cervical lesions while avoiding the need for complete removal of the uterus in many cases.

How Should Women Take Care of Their Health at Every Stage of Life?

Children and Adolescents (Ages 9–15)

          This is the ideal time to receive the HPV vaccine (vaccination is recommended for individuals up to 45 years of age, depending on individual circumstances and medical advice). Vaccination before the first exposure to HPV enables the body to develop the strongest immune protection.

Working-Age Women (Ages 21–60)

          Regular cervical cancer screening is essential, even if you have already received the HPV vaccine. HPV DNA testing is recommended because it offers higher sensitivity for detecting high-risk HPV infections than conventional screening methods.

Older Women (Age 60 and Above)

          Women should continue cervical cancer screening according to their healthcare provider's recommendations and remain attentive to any unusual symptoms or changes in their health. Screening frequency should be individualized based on age, previous screening results, and personal risk factors.

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          At Thonburi Thawiwatthana Hospital, we are committed to providing comprehensive care for every woman's health. We invite you to consult directly with our team of experienced specialists, because our goal extends beyond treating disease—we strive to develop personalized care plans tailored to your lifestyle, health needs, and individual goals.

          Our Women's Health Center embraces a Wellness and Prevention approach, offering comprehensive services ranging from HPV vaccination counseling to advanced HPV DNA testing for cervical cancer screening. All services are provided in a comfortable and private environment, with care delivered by our experienced obstetricians and gynecologists, available 24 hours a day.