Diyala College of Medicine holds a scientific symposium on early detection of cervical cancer

Under the supervision of the Dean of Diyala College of Medicine, Professor Dr. Ismail Ibrahim Latif.. The Women’s Affairs Unit held a scientific symposium on (early detection of cervical cancer) lectured by Assistant Professor Dr. Raghad Kamel Saadi in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
The symposium aimed at early detection of cervical cancer, which is a set of procedures and techniques used to determine the presence of cervical cancer or abnormal changes in its cells before they develop into cancer; which can be treated successfully and effectively, especially if detected early, and its symptoms include unusual bleeding between menstrual cycles, or after menopause, or after sexual intercourse, and excessive vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor, accompanied by persistent pain in the back, legs or pelvis, weight loss, fatigue, loss of appetite, and a feeling of discomfort with swelling of the legs.
It also highlighted several tests for the disease, including the Pap Smear test, which is performed periodically for women, where a sample of cervical cells is taken and examined under a microscope to detect any abnormal changes, and the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) test, which is used to detect the presence of the HPV virus, which is the main cause of cervical cancer. This test can be performed alone or with the Pap test, as well as periodic examinations that women are advised to perform regularly, starting at the age of 21, or after three years of marriage.
  In conclusion, the symposium recommended that all girls from the ages of 9 to 14 take the HPV vaccine, which provides protection against infection with the HPV virus, which causes cervical cancer and others, with the presentation of successful experiences from some health centers, which gave attendees the opportunity to exchange experiences and ideas.
This symposium comes within the framework of the college’s efforts to promote health awareness and contribute to combating cervical cancer.