The cervix is like a doorway to your womb- compact but crucial for your reproductive health. When abnormal cells grow out of control in this doorway, it can lead to cervical cancer.

The good news? Unlike many cancers, cervical cancer is largely preventable.

Why it matters in Hong Kong

Cervical cancer in Hong Kong is the 9th most common and the deadliest cancer in women (Hospital Authority, Hong Kong Cancer Registry). While survival is high when caught early- about 90% at stage 1, it drops steeply later, to less than 20% at stage 4. Hence, prevention and precaution are critical for you.

Spotting the signs

Early cervical cancer usually causes no symptoms. That’s why screening is so important. When symptoms appear, they may include:

• Unusual vaginal bleeding (after sex, between periods, or after menopause)
• Pain during sex
• Vaginal discharge that looks or smells unusual

Noticing these signs? Don’t brush them off. Check with your doctor.

Causes and risk factors

The leading cause of cervical cancer is persistent infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), a very common virus spread through sexual contact. Other risks include smoking, HIV, or long-term use of immunosuppressive drugs.

How to prevent cervical cancer?

Here’s the empowering part: cervical cancer is highly preventable.

• HPV vaccination: Vaccines like Gardasil 9 protect against the high-risk HPV types that cause about 70% of cervical cancers.
• Regular screening: Pap smears or HPV testing can detect precancerous changes early.  Studies show screening significantly reduces both incidence and deaths.

Your next move

Imagine the HPV vaccine like antivirus software- deploy it before the virus hits.

Studies recommend the HPV vaccine as routine for girls aged 11–12 years, and as a catch-up for those between 13-26 years. Protection can start as early as age 9, and vaccination is recommended up to age 45.

If you weren’t vaccinated before your first sexual experience, pairing the HPV vaccine with regular
screening now gives you the strongest possible defence.

Don’t wait:

• Book your HPV vaccination HERE (HK Govt Women’s Wellness Satellites. Ages 17-21).

• Schedule your cervical screening here, now (via the Ehealth app at HK District Health Centre/Women’s Wellness Satellites).

Get vaccinated. Get screened. Save your life, protect your future. Now!