ONE LIFE LOST, ANOTHER ACCUSED

Two years back, a patient walked into my clinic, with advanced cervical cancer. She has a history of bleeding from her vagina. Despite several efforts by a health care worker to convince her of a possible diagnosis of cervical cancer, she remained adamant. She didn't choose not to believe out of no reason, it was because she had believed another theory for too long. Bleeding only when her husband is in her room could not be understood more than some evil spirits sent by her co-wife, a cultural 'culprit' in anything 'spiritually not making sense'. Her belief was solidified when the bleeding stopped after the husband passed away. When it resurfaced almost a year later, she asked herself 'what else does my co-wife want?'

Bleeding from the vagina is a common sign of cervical cancer. The bleeding occurs usually after a sexual contact, which explains the above scenario. It can occur in between menstrual bleedings, or in women who have previously stopped mentruating (in menopause).

Misconception about cancer has continued to be a source of concern for oncologists. Oftentimes, it leads to denial, late presentation, refusal of required treatment and wrong accusations and unnecessary family problems.

If you are a woman with up to 5 years history of your first sexual contact, it's time to make the right decision. Commence your pap smear screening today. It's also time for women and girls above 9 years to take their HPV vaccine shots, irrespective of sexual status or Pap smear result.

Let's not forget our mothers, they have more risk factors for cervical cancer. Screen your mum today.

Dr Khadijat Mustapha

Cancer Gist with Poectormum

Khayr Cancer Health Initiative

YOCAC- Nigerian Cancer Society