Cervical cancer is the leading female cancer in Bhutan. Around 70 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer annually according to the National Referral Hospital. However, early diagnoses of cancer while screening with a Pap test has reduced the number of deaths from cervical cancer.
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix. It is caused by sexually transmitted infection, human papillomavirus (HPV).
Cervical cancer is not only curable but also preventable if detected early with a good screening.
“With women becoming more aware of cervical cancer, they are now turning up for Pap test or Pap smear, which helps to detect potentially pre-cancerous and cancerous processes in the cervix,” Dr Ugyen Tshomo, the Gynaecologist at JDWNRH, said.
She also added it is important for women to get their test report and do the follow-up for early detection of cervical cancer.
The national pap smear screening program was established in October 1999 but went nationwide only in 2006. Women between 25 to 65 years of age regardless of HPV vaccination status, has to do the Pap test. 90 per cent of the girls are HPV vaccinated since 2010.
At present, there are only six centres where pre-cancers are treated through the colposcopy. Many still have to visit the National Referral Hospital in Thimphu for the treatment.
Meanwhile, this November is observed as world cervical cancer prevention month. The health ministry is conducting awareness program and colposcopy camp in Bajo and Gidakom Hospital.
Last week, Pap test and colposcopy was conducted for 70 women in Paro.
