A cervical cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to face it alone. At Unittas Hospital, our dedicated team of oncology specialists, gynecologic surgeons, and support staff are committed to providing you with world-class cervical cancer treatment in Chennai combined with compassionate, personalized care. With advanced technology, proven treatment protocols, and a patient-first approach, we're here to guide you through every step of your journey toward recovery and renewed health.
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Call Now: 044-4012-4012Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cells of the cervix, which is the lower, narrow portion of the uterus that connects to the vagina. This malignancy typically begins when healthy cells in the cervix undergo genetic mutations that cause them to grow abnormally and form a mass of cells called a tumor. Unlike cervical dysplasia (precancerous changes), cervical cancer represents actual malignant transformation where cancer cells can invade deeper tissues and potentially spread to other parts of the body.
Most cervical cancers develop slowly over time, progressing through precancerous stages (cervical intraepithelial neoplasia or CIN) before becoming invasive cancer. This gradual progression highlights the importance of regular screening and awareness of how to prevent cervical cancer, as early detection and timely treatment during the precancerous stage can stop cancer from developing altogether.
One of the most challenging aspects of cervical cancer is that early-stage disease often produces no cervical cancer symptoms at all. This is why regular screening is absolutely crucial; it can detect cancer before symptoms appear, when treatment is most effective. However, as the cancer progresses, various symptoms may develop.
Understanding what cervical cancer causes and the associated risk factors empowers women to make informed decisions about prevention and screening. While most cases are linked to HPV infection, multiple factors influence cancer development.
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Cause | Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Persistent infection with high-risk HPV strains, mainly types 16 and 18, causes nearly all (99%+) cervical cancers. While HPV is very common, most infections clear naturally within 1-2 years. |
| HPV-Related Factors | • No HPV vaccination • Persistent high-risk HPV infection • Multiple HPV infections • First infection at a young age • Co-infection with other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) |
| Immune System Factors | • HIV/AIDS infection • Immunosuppressive medications (e.g., after organ transplant) • Chronic immunosuppression • Autoimmune disorders |
| Lifestyle & Behavioral Factors | • Cigarette smoking (doubles the risk) • Early onset of sexual activity • Multiple sexual partners • Partner with multiple sexual partners • Poor nutrition / low fruit and vegetable intake |
| Reproductive & Medical History | • Long-term oral contraceptive use (5+ years) • Multiple full-term pregnancies • First full-term pregnancy before age 17 • Family history of cervical cancer • Previous history of cervical dysplasia • Diethylstilbestrol (DES) exposure in utero |
Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective cervical cancer treatment. At Unittas Hospital, we employ the most advanced diagnostic technologies and follow international protocols to ensure precise staging and treatment planning, guided by some of the best cervical cancer doctors in Chennai.
Once cancer is confirmed, staging determines the extent of disease spread. Unittas Hospital's advanced imaging center provides:
Treatment for cervical cancer depends on multiple factors including the stage of disease, tumor size and type, your age, overall health, and desire for future childbearing. At Unittas Hospital, our multidisciplinary team develops personalized treatment plans that combine the most effective therapies while prioritizing your quality of life.
| Treatment Option | When It's Used | How It Works | Unittas Hospital Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conization (Cone Biopsy) | Very early-stage cancer (Stage IA1), especially in women desiring fertility | Removes a cone-shaped section of cervical tissue containing cancer. | • Cold knife or LEEP conization • Careful pathology review of margins • Fertility-preserving approach |
| Radical Trachelectomy (Fertility-Sparing Surgery) | Early-stage cervical cancer (Stage IA2 to small IB1) in women wishing future pregnancy | Removes cervix, upper vagina, and pelvic lymph nodes, preserving the uterus. | • Skilled in open and minimally invasive surgery • Fertility preservation possible |
| Simple (Total) Hysterectomy | Very early-stage cancer (Stage IA1-IA2) | Removal of uterus and cervix (vaginal, abdominal, or laparoscopic). | • Preference for minimally invasive methods • Faster recovery and minimal scarring |
| Radical Hysterectomy | Early-stage disease (Stage IB1-IIA1) | Removes uterus, cervix, part of vagina, and surrounding tissues with pelvic lymph nodes. | • Advanced laparoscopic & robotic-assisted surgery • High surgical precision & quicker recovery |
| Radiation Therapy | Locally advanced disease or when surgery is not feasible | External beam radiation + brachytherapy (internal radiation). | • State-of-the-art linear accelerators • Image-guided precision therapy |
| Chemotherapy | Combined with radiation (chemoradiation) for locally advanced cases or systemic treatment for advanced/recurrent cancer | Drugs (e.g., cisplatin) kill or slow cancer cell growth. | • Close monitoring of side effects • Supportive care & nutrition guidance |
| Targeted Therapy | Advanced or recurrent cervical cancer | Drugs like bevacizumab block blood supply to tumors. | • Access to latest targeted therapies • Integrated into personalized treatment plans |
| Immunotherapy | Advanced or recurrent cases resistant to other treatments | Activates the immune system to recognize and fight cancer. | • Use of proven immunotherapy agents (e.g., pembrolizumab) • Access to clinical trials |
| Palliative & Supportive Care | Advanced or metastatic disease where cure is not possible | Focus on pain relief, symptom control, and emotional support. | • Holistic care with counseling, pain management, and rehabilitation services |
The HPV vaccine offers strong protection against high-risk HPV strains. Regular Pap smears and HPV testing, practicing safe sex, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle further reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer.
At Unittas Hospital, we combine advanced technology, experienced specialists, and compassionate care to deliver comprehensive cervical cancer treatment. Our focus is not only on achieving the best clinical outcomes but also on preserving quality of life and supporting patients throughout their recovery journey, led by the best doctors for cervical cancer treatment in Chennai.
Yes, especially when detected early. Treatments like surgery, radiation, or chemoradiation are highly effective for localized disease. Even advanced stages can often be managed successfully to prolong life and control symptoms with modern therapies.
Yes. For women with very early-stage cervical cancer who wish to have children, fertility-sparing options like conization or radical trachelectomy may be used, preserving the uterus while still removing the cancer effectively.
Cervical cancer usually develops slowly, often taking 10-20 years for precancerous lesions (dysplasia) to turn into invasive cancer. This long window makes regular screening extremely effective in preventing cancer progression.
Treatment methods vary. Surgeries are performed under anesthesia, while radiation and chemotherapy may cause temporary side effects like fatigue or nausea. At Unittas Hospital, supportive care and advanced technology help minimize discomfort and promote faster recovery.
Survival depends on the stage at diagnosis. Early-stage cervical cancer has cure rates of over 90%. For more advanced stages, survival decreases, but modern therapies like targeted drugs and immunotherapy continue to improve outcomes.
Yes, recurrence can happen, particularly in advanced cases. This is why regular follow-up visits with Pap smears, HPV testing, and imaging are essential after treatment to monitor for any signs of return.
The HPV vaccine offers strong protection against high-risk HPV strains. Regular Pap smears and HPV testing, practicing safe sex, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle further reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer.
Early detection and treatment save lives. Schedule your screening now.
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