Cervical Cancer Treatment Cost in Malaysia

Cervical cancer is an abnormal growth of cancer cells that starts in the cervix. The cervix is the narrow part of the lower uterus. It is the entrance of the uterus, often referred to as the neck of the womb. Cervical cancer is the fourth most common type of cancer in women around the world. It is the fourth leading cause of death caused by cancer in women. However, the important thing to note is that cervical cancer is also one of the most preventable types of cancer and early diagnosis of the disease can improve the mortality rate amongst patients.

A dramatic reduction in cervical cancer occurrence is primarily due to the widespread use of advanced screening tests such as pap tests to detect cervical abnormalities and allow for early treatment.

Where does cervical cancer take place

Under normal circumstances, the ectocervix is covered with flat, thin cells called squamous cells, and the endocervix is made up of another kind of cells called columnar cells. The area where these cells meet is called the transformation (T) zone. The T zone is the most likely location for cervical cancer cells to develop.

Cervical Cancer Causes

A majority of cervical cancer cases occur because of a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a sexually transmitted virus. It can transfer through sexual contact with an infected male partner.

There are many types of the HPV virus and not all types of HPV cause cervical cancer. Some of the HPV may cause genital warts. Some other cervical cancer risk factors include smoking, weak immune system, oral contraceptives, and multiple pregnancies.

More than 90 percent of the cervical cancers are squamous cell carcinoma. The second most common type of cervical cancer is adenocarcinoma. Adenosquamous carcinomas or mixed carcinomas are some of the rare types of cervical cancer.

• Squamous cell Carcinoma: This is the most common type, accounting for approximately 70-90% of cervical cancer cases. It begins in the flat, thin cells (squamous cells) that line the outer surface of the cervix.
• Adenocarcinoma: It accounts for 10-30% of cervical cancer cases. It starts in the glandular cells that produce mucus in the cervical canal. Adenocarcinoma may be more challenging to detect early through Pap smears.

The treatment for cervical cancer may vary depending on the stage of the cancer, the patient's overall health, and other factors. Common treatment modalities include:

• Surgery: Cervical cancer surgery can be used to remove cancer cells from their place of origin and the surrounding tissues. The common types of surgery used for cervical cancer treatment include:

1. Conization (Cone Biopsy): Removal of a cone-shaped piece of tissue from the cervix to diagnose or treat early-stage cancer. Hysterectomy: Surgical removal of the uterus and, in some cases, surrounding tissues such as the ovaries and fallopian tubes.
2. Lymphadenectomy: Removal of lymph nodes in the pelvic area to check for cancer spread. Cryosurgery: In this method, an extremely cold metal probe is placed directly on the cervix, which kills the abnormal cells by freezing them.
3. Laser surgery: In this surgery, a focused laser beam is directed through the vagina which vaporizes abnormal cells.

• Radiation Therapy: it includes

1. External Beam Radiation: Directing radiation from outside the body to the cancer site.
2. Brachytherapy (Internal Radiation): Placing a radioactive source near or inside the tumor.

• Chemotherapy: This treatment makes use of anti-cancer medicines to kill cancer cells. The cytotoxic medicines used in chemotherapy enter the bloodstream and reach all areas of the body. This makes chemotherapy treatment useful for preventing cancer cells from dividing and growing in most parts of the body. Chemotherapy is often given in cycles, with each treatment period followed by a recovery time.It may be given orally or intravenously.
• Targeted Therapy: Medications targeting specific molecules involved in cancer cell growth. This may be used in combination with chemotherapy.
• Immunotherapy: Boosting the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.

The recovery process and duration of hospital stays following cervical cancer surgery can vary depending on the type of surgery performed and individual factors. Here's a general overview:

1. Conization (Cone Biopsy) Typically, women can resume normal activities within a few days to a week. Hospital Stay: Conization is often performed on an outpatient basis, requiring no overnight hospital stay.
2. Hysterectomy: Recovery time can range from a few weeks to several weeks, depending on the extent of surgery. Hospital Stay: For minimally invasive procedures (laparoscopic or robotic), hospital stays are usually shorter, often ranging from one to three days. For an open abdominal hysterectomy, the stay may be longer, typically around three to five days.
3. Lymphadenectomy: Recovery time is influenced by the extent of lymph node removal. Hospital Stay: Typically, one to three days, depending on the surgical approach and overall recovery progress.

It's very crucial to note that individual recovery experiences may vary, and some women may need more time for healing. After discharge, patients will be advised to follow up with their healthcare team for postoperative care, including monitoring for any signs of complications or infection. Throughout the recovery process, patients are often encouraged to:

• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities.
• Take prescribed medications as directed, including pain management.
• Attend follow-up appointments for postoperative checks and discussions about further treatment, if needed.
• Follow any specific instructions provided by the healthcare team, such as dietary guidelines and pelvic rest recommendations.

Moreover, emotional and psychological support is crucial during the recovery period, and healthcare providers may recommend counseling or support groups to address any concerns or emotional aspects of the journey.