In a startling revelation, health experts are warning women everywhere to remain vigilant about three key symptoms that could indicate the presence of cervical cancer, a disease that silently claims the lives of two women in the UK every day.

With early detection dramatically increasing survival chances, it’s crucial for women to be aware of these signals.

Cervical cancer, which tragically took the life of 27-year-old TV sensation Jade Goody, is often dubbed a ‘silent killer.’ Its initial symptoms can easily resemble common issues like heavy menstruation or general fatigue.

However, early recognition of these warning signs can boost the five-year survival rate to an astonishing 95%. In stark contrast, if diagnosed at a later stage when cancer has invaded other parts of the body, the survival rate plummets to only 15%.

Angela Sarmiento Bentancourt, a medical expert from myTomorrows — an organization that aids patients in accessing clinical trials — has highlighted three critical symptoms that every woman should be aware of:

1. Heavier Menstrual Periods:

An increase in the heaviness and frequency of periods could be a red flag.

2. Abnormal Bleeding:

Experiencing bleeding after sexual intercourse, between periods, or following menopause warrants immediate medical attention.

3. Pain During Intercourse or in the Pelvic Region:

Unexplained pain, particularly in the lower abdomen or back, can also be a significant symptom.

Women may not initially connect these symptoms with cervical cancer, as they can be mistaken for other conditions.

For instance, heavy bleeding might lead to increased fatigue, and lower back pain is often attributed to menstruation.

Yet, this discomfort can sometimes be due to tumors pressing against vital structures in the body.

Experts emphasize the importance of seeking prompt medical evaluation to rule out cervical cancer when experiencing these symptoms.

While it’s more likely that the cause of such symptoms is benign, the investigation is essential for peace of mind.

Conditions like hormone imbalances, fibroids, or endometriosis could play a role, but early diagnosis is vital.

Cervical cancer ranks as the 14th most common cancer among women in the UK, impacting approximately 3,300 individuals each year.

Alarmingly, on a global scale, it stands as the fourth most prevalent cancer affecting women, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

A major contributor to cervical cancer is the human papillomavirus (HPV), responsible for approximately 99% of cases.

With over 100 types of HPV, around 30 are sexually transmitted, and while many individuals remain asymptomatic or clear the virus without treatment, others may experience severe complications that lead to cervical cancer over time.

To mitigate the risk of HPV contraction, using condoms is advisable, though they do not provide complete protection.

Fortunately, an HPV vaccine exists, boasting over 80% effectiveness, available to many in developed countries.

It is offered in a two-dose regimen for children aged 11 to 12 — the doses spaced 12 months apart.

For older individuals aged 15 to 26 who may have missed the initial vaccination opportunity, a three-dose series can be administered.

In the UK, all women aged 25 to 64 are invited to partake in regular cervical screenings, a crucial preventive measure that helps identify early signs of cervical cancer.

Awareness and prompt action are key to combating this deadly disease — don’t ignore the signs!