Cervical Cancer

Empowering Women: Understanding Cervical Cancer and Insurance Coverage

Begin securing your future

Please enter correct name Please enter the Full name
Please enter valid mobile number Please enter Mobile Number
Please enter valid email Please enter Email
Consent is required

Application Status

Name

Date of Birth

Plan Name

Status

Name of the policy holder

Policy Holder Name

Policy No.

Policy Number

Address of the Policyholder as per records

Address

Unclaimed Amount

Unclaimed Amount
Error

Sorry! No records Found

.  Please use this ID for all future communications regarding this concern.

Thank you for your interest in our product. Our financial expert will connect with you shortly to help you choose the best plan.

Exit Pop Up

Live Life More Confidently

Get best insurance from our experts

Name is required Name should be Valid
Mobile Number is required Mobile Number should be Valid
DOB is required DOB should be Valid
Annual Income is required
Please tick to proceed further.

Thank you for your interest in our product. Our financial expert will connect with you shortly to help you choose the best plan.

Cervical cancer is an alarming global health concern, affecting women of all ages, particularly in developing countries where access to screening and preventive measures is limited. Anyone possessing a cervix is susceptible to the development of cervical cancer. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide, with approximately 570,000 new cases and 311,000 deaths reported annually.

Despite advances in screening techniques and vaccination programs targeting Human Papillomavirus (HPV) cervical cancer is still prevalent because of the disparities in access to healthcare and education.


What is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer is a form of carcinoma that originates in the cells of a woman's cervix and is often life-threatening. The cervix is crucial to the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and childbirth. It is usually treatable if detected and treated appropriately. The precancerous situation of cervical cancer is called dysplasia.

How is Cervical Cancer Caused?

Human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that can be transmitted during intercourse, is the cause of almost all cervical cancers. HPV comes in a variety of forms. While some HPV types might cause genital or skin warts, others can deform the cervix over time and increase the risk of developing cervical cancer.

Multitudes of HPV strains are responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases. The immune system of the body usually stops HPV from causing harm. But in some cases, the virus lives in the body for years which causes some cervical cells to develop into cancerous cells.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer can cause various symptoms in different people. Certain common symptoms of cervical cancer are listed below:

  • Light bleeding or blood spots after periods

  • Longer and heavier menstrual bleeding

  • Increased vaginal discharge

  • Enduring pain in the back or pelvis

  • Pain during or after intercourse

  • Bleeding after menopause

  • Swelling in the legs

  • Appetite loss

  • Weight loss and exhaustion

How to Diagnose Cervical Cancer?

To detect or diagnose cancer, doctors perform various tests to determine whether it has progressed from its original site to another section of the body. The spreading of cancer is known as metastasis.

The only reliable method for a doctor to determine whether a part of the body has cancer is through a biopsy. During a biopsy, the doctor removes a tiny piece of tissue to be examined in a lab. If a biopsy is not feasible, the doctor could recommend further tests to aid in the diagnosis. Here are some methods that help diagnose cervical cancer:

Early Detection

If detected in the early stage, cervical cancer is typically curable. It can be diagnosed by performing one or more of the following tests:

  • PAP test

  • HPV typing test

  • Sterile speculum examination and bimanual pelvic examination

  • Punch biopsy

  • Conization (cone biopsy)

  • Endocervical curettage (ECC)

  • Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP)

  • Pelvic examination under anaesthesia

Other than these, doctors may also perform X-rays, CT scans, MRI, colposcopy, and some more tests to diagnose the condition.

Treatment options

There are various ways to treat cervical cancer, depending on the severity of the condition. Hence, after a thorough diagnosis, doctors may suggest one or more of the following treatment options:

  • Surgery

  • Radiation

  • Chemotherapy

  • Immunotherapy

  • Targeted therapy

  • Biopsy

  • Laser Ablation

  • Hysterectomy

What are the Stages of Cervical Cancer?

After diagnosis, your doctor will identify the stage of cervical cancer. It is possible to determine whether and to what extent the cancer has spread, depending on the stage. By determining the stage of the cancer, doctors can choose the most appropriate course of treatment.

Must read: Term Insurance plans for Cancer cover

Cervical cancer progresses via four stages:

  1. At this point, the cancer is only relatively small. The lymph nodes may have been impacted, while other body parts are still unaffected.

  2. There has been tumour growth. It hasn't yet migrated to other areas of your body, though it might have made it to the lymph nodes or beyond the uterus and cervix.

  3. The lower vagina or pelvis now contains cancer. It could block the ureters, which are tubes that go from the kidneys to the bladder to transport urine. However, the other areas are unaffected.

  4. The cancer may have progressed from the pelvis to other organs, including the bones, lungs, or liver.

Is Cervical Cancer Preventable?

The HPV vaccine offers protection against the HPV strains that are most frequently linked to vulvar, vaginal, and cervical cancers. Although it can be administered as early as the age of 9, the HPV vaccination is advised for preteen ages 11 to 12. It is advised to receive the HPV vaccine up until age 26.

Also, you can choose to have yearly screenings and testing like PAP and HPV exams. These examinations will support prompt identification and treatment. Additionally, reducing the risk of cervical cancer can be achieved by exercising prudence when engaging in physical activity. Smoking aggravates any type of cancer, thus, if you smoke, quitting is the only solution.

In the Interim Budget 2024, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated on February 1 that the government would prioritise vaccinating girls between the ages of 9 and 14 against cervical cancer amongst several other health-related initiatives.

Why Should You Buy Medical Insurance or a Cervical Cancer Cover?

It is crucial to choose critical illness coverage or cervical cancer insurance policy because the disease is on the rise among women. With the best insurance plan, you can choose the best course of action without worrying about the cost. The following are some benefits of choosing a good medical insurance plan:

  • Treatment Costs: Treatment for cervical cancer can be highly costly. Your insurance company will pay for your medical expenses if you have the proper healthcare plan or a term insurance plan, protecting you from severe financial hardship, stress, and anxiety.

  • Cashless Hospitalisation: Serious adverse effects from cancer treatments may necessitate immediate medical intervention. If you're insured, you can visit the network hospital without worrying about paying for it.

  • Financial Security: You won't have to worry about exhausting your money if you have an insurance policy or health care plan for cervical cancer. Your big medical expenses will be paid for by the insurance policy, giving you and your family peace of mind.

  • Free Preventive Health Check-ups: Free preventive health exams are sometimes provided by insurance policies when the coverage is being renewed. This can aid in early identification and treatment of any illness, including cervical cancer.
     

Did You Know?

January is the world cervical cancer awareness month, represented by Teal colour.


Make the Right Choice!

Even though cervical cancer is a dangerous disease, in most instances can be treated. Since the cost of treating cancer or any other critical illness can significantly deplete your funds, you must have adequate critical illness insurance coverage. Opt for plans that offer this options so that you and your loved ones can get the needed medical attention and ensure a speedy recovery.

Women must put their health first and take care of it. Taking care of these issues without insurance might drain funds and lead to financial hardship. Finding an insurance plan that takes care of specific medical conditions is essential as it provides financial support in times of need.
 

Key Takeaways:

  • Approximately 570,000 new cases and 311,000 deaths are reported annually due to cervical cancer.

  • Cervical cancer screening is recommended for people between the ages of 21-65.

  • The two high-risk types of HPV (Type 16 & 18) cause most cervical cancer cases.

  • Cryotherapy or loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) provides appropriate treatment for most women who have cervical precancer.

  • Pap and HPV tests and HPV vaccination are the most common and easy ways to prevent cervical cancer.
glossary-img

Disclaimer - This article is issued in the general public interest and meant for general information purposes only. The views expressed in this blog are solely those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Canara HSBC Life Insurance Company Limited or any affiliated entity. We make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the blog or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the blog for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk. You should consult with a qualified professional regarding your specific circumstances before taking any action based on the content provided herein.

Recent Blogs

Standalone Health Insurance vs Riders in Life Insurance: Which Is Better?
18 July '25
158 Views
5 minute read
Learn how health riders differ from standalone health insurance in benefits, premiums, and claims. Choose the best fit for your coverage needs.
Read More
Health Plan
How to Manage Medical Costs Better with Right Financial Plan
30 June '25
164 Views
4 minute read
Secure your health and finances by planning for medical expenses. Explore strategies to handle healthcare costs while protecting your family’s wellbeing.
Read More
Health Plan
How to Prepare for Medical Emergencies Without Any Stress?
30 Apr '25
111 Views
5 minute read
Stay prepared for medical emergencies with smart financial planning, health insurance, and emergency funds. Learn how to protect your health and finances.
Read More
Health Plan
When is the right time to buy a health insurance plan?
02 Aug '24
873 Views
A health insurance plan has become quintessential in the wake of COVID-19. It is always better to stay guarded for uncertainties and buying the best health plan can help you stay prepared
Read More
Health Plan
What is a Comprehensive Health Insurance Plan?
02 Aug '24
876 Views
Comprehensive health insurance is a perfect mix of relevant health insurance plans to offer safety from the hospital as well as major treatment expenses. Discover how to create your comprehensive health cover…
Read More
Health Plan

FAQs

Cervical cancer is a serious illness and is the 4th most common cancer in women. The treatment costs are high and can be overwhelming for the general public. However, with the correct insurance plan, you will be aided in the treatment process.

The early-stage signs of cervical cancer are bleeding in the vaginal area. It can be experienced after intercourse, after menopause, and between periods. You may also experience a watery vaginal discharge that has a strong odour or that contains blood. There can also be pelvic pain during intercourse.

The 5-year relative survival rate is 91% if it is diagnosed at an early stage. However, it declines to 60% when the cancer spreads to nearby tissues, organs, or lymph nodes.

In most cases, doctors advise waiting 6 to 12 months after conization or trachelectomy before trying to get pregnant. This is to allow enough time to heal fully. However, after treatment of cervical cancer, there is a chance of infertility and/or pregnancy problems.

In general, cervical cancer is treatable and curable, especially if it is identified early. The majority of cervical cancers that have not progressed past the cervix are treated with a radical hysterectomy.

Cervical cancer is a serious illness and is the 4th most common cancer in women. The treatment costs are high and can be overwhelming for the general public. However, with the correct insurance plan, you will be aided in the treatment process.

The early-stage signs of cervical cancer are bleeding in the vaginal area. It can be experienced after intercourse, after menopause, and between periods. You may also experience a watery vaginal discharge that has a strong odour or that contains blood. There can also be pelvic pain during intercourse.

The 5-year relative survival rate is 91% if it is diagnosed at an early stage. However, it declines to 60% when the cancer spreads to nearby tissues, organs, or lymph nodes.

In most cases, doctors advise waiting 6 to 12 months after conization or trachelectomy before trying to get pregnant. This is to allow enough time to heal fully. However, after treatment of cervical cancer, there is a chance of infertility and/or pregnancy problems.

In general, cervical cancer is treatable and curable, especially if it is identified early. The majority of cervical cancers that have not progressed past the cervix are treated with a radical hysterectomy.