Did you know, every year, cervical cancer claims the lives of over 300,000 women globally and it is the fourth most common cancer in women? Despite these shocking key facts, it is one of the most preventable cancers affecting women.
Cervical cancer occurs in the cells of the cervix (the lower part of the uterus) that connects to the female reproductive organ (vagina).
Despite being caused primarily by persistent infection with certain strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV)—a common sexually transmitted virus, research shows that certain lifestyle choices significantly affect your risk. By understanding and adjusting these habits, you can take charge of your health and lower your chances of developing this silent killer.
Imagine this: Aisha, a busy mother and professional living in Lagos, between managing her children and work, she skips meals, drinks little water, smokes socially, and rarely exercises. When she begins experiencing persistent pelvic pain, she dismisses it as stress and fatigue. Months later, a Pap smear reveals cervical abnormalities that could have been avoided with healthier lifestyle choices.
Here’s how your everyday decisions can influence your cervical health and simple ways to make better choices.
- Smoking Doubles Your Risk
Did you know that women who smoke are twice as likely to develop cervical cancer? Cigarette smoke contains harmful chemicals that damage the DNA of cervical cells and weaken the body’s ability to fight HPV infections.
What You Can Do:
- Quit smoking now. Get personalized counselling and support to help you break free from nicotine dependency.
- Poor Nutrition Weakens Immunity
Your immune system is your body’s frontline defence against infections, including HPV. Without the right nutrients, your ability to fight off harmful viruses decreases, leaving you vulnerable.
Boost Your Immunity with These Foods:
- Leafy greens like spinach and Ugwu are rich in folate, a vitamin that supports cell health.
- Fish and eggs provide Vitamin D, known for enhancing immune responses.
- Citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruits are packed with Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant.
Simple Tip: Plan balanced meals that include a mix of these nutrient-dense foods to keep your body strong.
- Lack of Exercise Fuels Obesity
A sedentary lifestyle contributes to obesity, which is linked to hormonal imbalances and increased risk of various cancers, including cervical cancer.
Make Movement a Habit:
- Dance around your living room or take brisk walks around your neighborhood, staying active helps.
Try This: Schedule 30 minutes of activity three to four times a week. Consistency beats intensity.
- Stress Weakens Your Defences
Chronic stress doesn’t just affect your mood—it compromises your immune system, making it harder to fend off HPV and other infections.
Manage Stress with These Strategies:
- Practice mindfulness or meditation using free apps.
- Take five-minute breaks every hour to stretch or breathe deeply.
- Consider talking to a therapist if stress becomes overwhelming.
Try this: Create self-care reminders like “take a walk,” “hydrate,” or “meal prep.” Small actions compound into significant health benefits.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Start small—quit smoking, eat better, move more, and manage stress. Visit Avon Medical Practice for a comprehensive health checkup and advice tailored to your needs. Call (+234)-908-799-4655; (+234)-908-799-4656.