What is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects the uterus to the vagina. The main cause of cervical cancer is infection with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), especially certain types of HPV that are oncogenic (can cause cancer).
Cervical cancer usually develops slowly and often causes no symptoms in the early stages. However, if detected early through screening such as a Pap smear or HPV test, the condition can be treated more effectively.
More advanced symptoms of cervical cancer may include abnormal vaginal bleeding (such as after sex, between periods, or after menopause), pelvic pain, and unusual vaginal discharge. Cervical cancer can be prevented through HPV vaccination, early detection, and safe sexual behavior.
Is cervical cancer possible in children, and how common is it in Indonesia?
Cervical cancer in children is very rare. Cervical cancer usually occurs in adult women, especially those between the ages of 30 and 50. It is caused by infection with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which is usually transmitted through sexual contact, something that is not common in children.
In Indonesia, as in many other countries, cases of cervical cancer in children are almost undocumented because they are very rare. More often, these cases are found in women who have been sexually active and have a history of HPV infection.
However, it is important to remember that children and adolescents can start receiving HPV vaccination from the age of 9, which serves as a major preventive measure against cervical cancer later in life.
How can the HPV virus often linked to cervical cancer affect children, and at what age does this risk begin to emerge?
HPV or Human Papillomavirus is a very common virus that can affect anyone who has skin-to-skin contact with someone who is infected, including through sexual contact. There are over 100 types of HPV, but only a few are associated with a high risk of cancer, including cervical cancer.
In children:
- HPV in children is rarely associated with cervical cancer because this cancer develops after years of persistent infection with high-risk HPV types.
- Children can become infected with HPV through non-sexual transmission, such as from mother to baby during childbirth, but these infections are usually temporary and do not cause cancer.
- HPV can also cause skin warts and warts in the genital area, but this is rare in children.
Risk and Age:
- The risk of HPV-related cervical cancer begins to increase as individuals become sexually active. HPV infections are common in adolescents and young adults after they become sexually active.
- HPV vaccination, given at age 9, is the primary preventive measure to protect against the types of HPV that can cause cervical cancer in the future. The vaccine is most effective when given before a person is exposed to HPV (before they become sexually active).
Overall, the risk of HPV infection in children is very low, and the risk of HPV-related cervical cancer usually does not appear until adulthood, after many years of persistent infection.
Why is it important for parents to understand the risks of cervical cancer in their children from an early age?
Although cervical cancer is very rare in children, it is important for parents to understand this risk early on for several reasons:
1. Prevention Through Vaccination
- The HPV vaccine can be given from age 9 and is the most effective way to prevent HPV infection that can lead to cervical cancer later in life. Understanding the importance of HPV vaccination can encourage parents to ensure their children are vaccinated at the right age.
2. Early Sexual Education
- Understanding the risks of HPV and cervical cancer can help parents provide appropriate sexual education to their children before they become sexually active. This knowledge is important to reduce the risk of HPV infection and encourage safe sexual behavior.
3. Early Detection
- Although cervical cancer in children is very rare, early detection through routine tests such as Pap smears (after a certain age) can be very important as they enter adulthood. Parents who understand the importance of screening can encourage their children to undergo regular health checks.
4. Stigma Reduction
- Understanding HPV and cervical cancer can help reduce the stigma surrounding these diseases and sexually transmitted infections, which in turn can encourage greater openness and health education within families.
With this knowledge, parents can take proactive steps to protect their children's future health and ensure that they receive a comprehensive health education.
What role does the HPV vaccine play in preventing cervical cancer in children, and is there an age limit for receiving this vaccine?
The HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccine plays a very important role in preventing cervical cancer and several other types of cancer caused by HPV infection, such as vulvar, vaginal, penile, and oropharyngeal cancer. HPV is a sexually transmitted virus and some types of HPV can cause cell changes that can develop into cancer if left untreated.
The HPV vaccine works by training the immune system to recognize and fight the specific types of HPV that most commonly cause cancer. By receiving the vaccine, a person gains protection against HPV infection and the risk of developing related cancers.
Age restrictions for HPV vaccine:
- Ideal Age: The HPV vaccine is usually given to children and adolescents before they become sexually active, which is usually between the ages of 9 and 14. Ideally, the vaccine is given in this age range because the immune response to the vaccine is better in younger age groups.
- Age Range for Receipt: Although the HPV vaccine is most effective when given before the onset of sexual activity, the vaccine is still beneficial if given at an earlier age. In many countries, the HPV vaccine is recommended for children and adolescents aged 9 to 14 years, but it can also be given to individuals up to 26 years of age (and in some cases up to 45 years of age) if they have not previously received the vaccine or have not completed the vaccination series.
Overall, the HPV vaccine is a highly effective preventive tool and is recommended to reduce the incidence of cervical cancer and other HPV-related cancers. If you have specific questions about HPV vaccination or the vaccination schedule, it is a good idea to consult a healthcare professional to get information that is tailored to your individual circumstances and needs.
Apart from vaccination, what other preventive measures can parents take to protect their children from the risk of cervical cancer?
In addition to HPV vaccination, there are several other preventive measures parents can take to protect their children from the risk of cervical cancer and HPV infection. Here are some additional strategies:
1. Proper Sexual Education
- Sexuality Education: Teach children about sexual health, including information about HPV and how it is transmitted. This education can help them make better decisions when they become sexually active.
- The Importance of Protection: Discuss the importance of using condoms to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections, including HPV, although condoms do not completely eliminate the risk of HPV infection.
2. Promote General Health
- Healthy Lifestyle: Encouraging a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise can improve the immune system in general, helping the body fight off infections and diseases.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of various types of cancer, including cancer. Avoiding smoking and smoking environments is an important step.
3. Regular Health Monitoring:
- Routine Screening: While more relevant for adult women, it is important to ensure that family members receive regular health checkups. For adult women, regular pap smears and HPV testing can help detect cervical cell changes before they develop into cancer.
4. Encourage Safe Sexual Behavior:
- Monogamous Sexual Relationships: Encouraging monogamous sexual relationships or with tested partners can reduce the risk of HPV infection.
- Open Communication: Encourage children to talk openly about sexual health and the decisions they make.
5. Access to Health Services:
- Education and Resources: Ensure children have access to health information and services that can support their sexual and reproductive health.
These steps, along with HPV vaccination, can provide comprehensive protection and help reduce the risk of future cervical cancer.
Article written by dr. Gracia Merryane Rosaline Gerardi Rauw, Sp.OG (Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist, EMC Alam Sutera Hospital).