India, Jan. 17 -- Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer affecting women in India. It is also the second most frequent cancer among women between aged between 15 and 44 years. What makes this statistic even more tragic is the fact that cervical cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers, if detected early. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. Nearly all cases of cervical cancer are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common infection spread through sexual contact. In most women, the body clears HPV naturally. However, in some cases, the infection persists silently, causing precancerous changes in the cervix that can gradually turn into cancer if left undetected. This is where regular pap smear screening becomes lifesaving. Screening should begin at 21 years of age for sexually active females. Women can undergo a liquid-based pap smear annually for three years and if results are normal, then once every three years until the age of 65. When a pap smear is combined with HPV testing, screening is required only once every five years. Early screening can stop cancer before it even begins and more than 90% cancers are curable in early stages. Several factors increase the risk of cervical cancer, such as persistent high-risk HPV infection, early sexual activity, multiple partners, multiple pregnancies, weak immunity, smoking, long-term use of oral contraceptives, other sexually transmitted infections, lack of screening, and not getting vaccinated. The HPV vaccine is a powerful shield against cervical cancer. Two doses are recommended for girls aged 9-14 years, and three doses for those aged 15-26 years. Recognising its importance, the government aims to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030 by focusing on vaccinating 90% of adolescent girls before 15 years of age, screening 70% of women aged 35 to 45, and treating 90% of pre-cancerous and cancerous women. When detected early, cervical cancer can be treated with surgery or radiation. Advanced stages may require a combination of radiation, chemotherapy and other systemic agents. Safe sexual practices, HPV vaccination, regular screening, and timely treatment can ensure that no woman loses her life to a largely preventable disease....