Is Cervical Cancer Contagious? Check Out 7 Myths About Cervical Cancer Here!

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Is Cervical Cancer Contagious? Check Out 7 Myths About Cervical Cancer Here!

December 11, 2024 by Fathimah Zahro

Cervical cancer is a serious health threat that indiscriminately affects women worldwide, regardless of age or background. Ranked as the fourth most common cancer among women globally, this disease not only causes physical harm but also brings deep fear and anxiety. Unfortunately, these worries are often accompanied by many myths, exacerbating stigma and confusion, which can hinder prevention efforts, including cervical cancer testing.

Misinformation, though unfounded, can have dire consequences by obstructing important preventative measures and increasing unnecessary fears. Therefore, it is crucial to uncover the truth to dispel confusion and anxiety. Here are some common myths about cervical cancer and the factual explanations you need to know:

1. Is Cervical Cancer Contagious?

This is a myth! Like other cancers, cervical cancer is not contagious. However, Human Papillomavirus (HPV)—the primary cause of cervical cancer—can spread through skin-to-skin contact, including sexual activity. HPV is common among sexually active individuals. According to WHO, most adults who are or have been sexually active will contract HPV at least once in their lifetime.

2. If Infected with HPV, Cervical Cancer Is Inevitable

Not true! While HPV is the primary cause of cervical cancer, there are over 100 types of HPV, and not all cause cervical cancer. Many HPV infections resolve on their own, thanks to the immune system. However, be cautious: high-risk types like HPV 16 and 18 are more likely to cause cancer.

3. Men Cannot Transmit HPV

Wrong! Although men don’t develop cervical cancer, they can carry HPV and spread it through sexual activity. HPV vaccination is also important for men, as it protects against other cancers, like penile or throat cancer, while reducing HPV transmission risks.

4. Women with Cervical Cancer Cannot Have Children

Not entirely true. Although treatments like chemotherapy or hysterectomy can affect fertility, many women with early-stage cervical cancer have successfully become mothers with medical assistance. Early detection and consultation with a doctor are key.

5. An HPV Diagnosis Means a Partner Was Unfaithful

Don’t jump to conclusions! HPV can persist in the body for years without symptoms, meaning an infection doesn’t necessarily indicate infidelity.

6. Cervical Cancer Is Incurable

This is false! When detected early, cervical cancer is highly treatable with options like surgery or radiation. This is why early screening is crucial. In fact, the success rate of treatment for early-stage cervical cancer is quite high. Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. The key is not to delay getting yourself checked!

7. Cervical Cancer Screening Is Only for Symptomatic Women

Absolutely not! Screening is crucial before symptoms appear, as early stages of cervical cancer often have no visible signs. Regular testing detects abnormal cervical cells before they turn into cancer.

Read : How Important is Early Detection of Cervical Cancer?

Cervical Cancer Testing Made Better with PathoScan

Early detection is critical in preventing severe cervical cancer cases. The PathoScan hrHPV qPCR Kit, an innovation by Nusantics, offers cervical cancer screening technology based on HPV DNA testing designed to quickly and accurately detect high-risk HPV types like HPV 16 and 18. HPV DNA testing has been recommended by the WHO as the primary screening method since 2021.

Unlike traditional methods like the Pap smear, which identifies abnormal cell changes, PathoScan directly detects the root cause: HPV DNA. The kit is highly sensitive, delivers rapid results, and is user-friendly, making it ideal for healthcare facilities. By leveraging innovations like the PathoScan hrHPV qPCR Kit, women can ensure earlier, more reliable detection, improving their chances of recovery. For Indonesian women, this is a promising step amidst low awareness about early screening.

Fighting cervical cancer involves more than treatment—it requires proactive prevention and proper education. Disproving myths and replacing them with facts are essential steps in protecting women’s health globally. With innovations like PathoScan, early detection becomes more accessible, offering greater hope for a healthier future. Don’t let fear stand in the way of care—every woman deserves the best protection.

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