The Power of Choice: Empowering Lifestyles for Cervical Cancer Survival

Cervical cancer continues to be a significant concern in India, with survival rates revealing a pressing concern in public health. Dr Aabha Bhalerao, Consulting Senior Gynaecologist, Ruby Hall Clinic, Hinjawadi explores the impact of cervical cancer on the lives of women in India, the disparities in survival rates, and how lifestyle choices can make a substantial difference in combating this disease.

Survival Rates and the Public Health Concern

Cervical cancer is a major public health issue in India, with a high incidence and mortality rate. The survival rates for cervical cancer in India are considerably lower than in developed countries. This stark contrast is largely due to various factors such as limited access to healthcare, late-stage diagnosis, and a lack of awareness about the disease. Understanding the reasons behind these low survival rates is crucial for addressing this issue.

1. Addressing Regional DisparitiesOne of the critical aspects of improving cervical cancer survival rates is to understand and address regional disparities. India is a diverse country with variations in healthcare infrastructure, awareness levels, and cultural attitudes toward cancer. By identifying these regional differences and tailoring interventions to address them, we can significantly impact lifestyle choices and overall health outcomes. This includes providing better access to healthcare facilities and increasing awareness through public campaigns.
2. Impact on Women’s LifestylesCervical cancer’s prevalence in India has far-reaching implications on women’s daily lives. Beyond the physical challenges, it brings emotional and social burdens. Survivors of cervical cancer often face sexual dysfunction and reduced sexual satisfaction. Pain and weariness become common symptoms, leading to a lower quality of life. It is evident that cervical cancer not only affects health but also the overall lifestyle and well-being of women.
3. Lifestyle Factors and SurvivalThe lifestyle choices individuals make play a pivotal role in cervical cancer survival rates and healthcare accessibility. Diet, exercise, and overall wellness can either reduce or increase the risk of developing this cancer. Eating a healthy diet, high in fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains, can significantly lower the risk. Regular exercise not only improves physical and mental health but also aids in recovery for cancer survivors. These lifestyle factors can empower individuals to take control of their health.
4. Adopting Lifestyle ChangesReducing the risk of cervical cancer and improving survival rates may pose challenges, but the benefits are immense. Individuals can take proactive steps, such as eating a healthier diet with fewer processed foods, and engaging in regular physical activity. Cancer survivors can particularly benefit from increased strength, endurance, reduced depression symptoms, less anxiety and weariness, and an overall sense of well-being.
5. Promoting Healthier LifestylesTo bridge the survival rate disparities effectively, promoting a healthier lifestyle is key. Focusing on early detection through awareness campaigns and preventive measures can be a game-changer. By breaking the silence and stigma surrounding cancer, we create an atmosphere of understanding, sympathy, and empathy. This not only empowers individuals to make healthier choices but also ensures they have access to the healthcare resources they need.

Survivors of cervical cancer demonstrated a lower quality of life. The functional challenges are most impacted by money, physical, emotional, and social functioning. Among cervical cancer survivors, pain, exhaustion, insomnia, and hunger were the most troubling symptoms. These results are in line with those of other studies in the literature that demonstrate cervical cancer patients have a lower quality of life. In addition, cervical cancer patients treated with NACT and a subsequent radical hysterectomy as opposed to conventional therapy demonstrated poor sexual function and quality of life compared to healthy controls. However, other studies demonstrate no appreciable differences between ovarian cancer survivors and healthy controls in terms of their quality of life and sexual function, even as their social functioning and financial situation decline.

1. Eat healthy.
2. You can reduce your risk of developing gynecologic cancer as well as other malignancies by eating a healthy diet high in fruit, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains. Eat less unhealthy or maybe highly processed foods.
3. Be active.
4. Exercise ensures improvement in both your physical and mental health and helps you maintain better total body health. All ages are advised to exercise five times for 30 minutes. This enhances your body’s resistance against sickness as well.
5. After cancer treatment, regular exercise can help you feel better and hasten your recovery.
6. Increased strength and endurance are possible benefits for cancer survivors who exercise.
7. Less depression symptoms
8. A reduction in anxiety & weariness
9. Improved mood, more self-esteem, less discomfort, better sleep, and a lower risk of cancer recurrence
10. A feeling of wellbeing