Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix - the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Cervical cancer pays no heed to socio-economics, race or age. It can strike any woman, at any time. It is alarming to learn that nearly 5,000 women die of cervical cancer each year in Bangladesh while 8,000 women are infected with cervical cancer in the country during the same period.
Though cervical cancer is recognized as one of the top cancers affecting Bangladeshi women, people in Bangladesh are still very tight-lipped about the disease. Because of social stigma attached to sexual organs, most of the women in Bangladesh are completely unaware of their illness. In Bangladesh, not only rural and uneducated women but also educated ones consider talking about cervical cancer as something shameful. That’s why they are often late in early detection of the disease.
The government should launch massive
campaign across the country
to create awareness among
people about cervical cancer
Taboo is the reason for many premature deaths of cervical cancer in Bangladesh. Hence, there is no alternative to breaking the stigmas regarding cervical cancer to lessen the sufferings of patients and improve the mortality rate. Mass media can play a vital role by building awareness and helping to encourage open conversation around on this issue.
Early detection of the disease remains the cornerstone of cervical cancer control. When cervical cancer is detected early, and if adequate diagnosis and treatment are available, there is a good chance that the cancer can be cured. If detected late, however, curative treatment is often no longer an option. Hence, the government should launch massive campaign across the country to create awareness among people about cervical cancer.
High cost of treatment, lack of adequate radiation facilities, shortage of skilled manpower, and lack of awareness within the community are the main challenges hindering cancer care in Bangladesh. It needs no emphasizing that concerted efforts by the government and private sectors are needed for gradual progress in cancer care management. Also, necessary steps to decrease the treatment cost of cancer. There is a need to create a new or updated cancer control plan supported by accurate data, reliable cancer registries and monitoring and evaluation programmes.
