Overview –

Asarfi Cancer Institute stands as ray of hope for women battling cervical cancer. With advanced treatments, compassionate care, and a dedicated team of specialists, we are transforming lives. Every patient receives treatment as per their disease. We ensure the best possible outcomes. We don’t just treat cancer—we empower women to fight, heal, and reclaim their lives with confidence. At Asarfi, every journey is met with hope, strength, and a promise of a brighter tomorrow.

Key Takeaways –

• Advanced treatments ensuring better survival and recovery.
• Expert oncologists providing world-class care.
• Personalized treatment plans for every patient.
• Compassionate support for emotional and physical well-being.
• Latest technology for early detection and precision therapy.
• Hope and healing at the heart of every journey.

Introduction

Cervical cancer is painful, full of blood discharge and fatal if left untreated. Let’s know about some cervical cancer facts from some reputed studies before getting to understanding about cervical cancer, it’s prevention, care and treatment, diet and lifestyle and more.

Cervical cancer is one of the leading diseases in the world. In fact, cervical cancer is one of the major cancers found in women especially in developing countries like India.

As per a report from The World Health Organisation – there were 6,60,000 new cases and around 3,50,000 deaths worldwide due to cervical cancer. An article in Business Standard shows - “123,907 cervical cases were diagnosed and 77,348 deaths reported in 2020.”  Moving ahead, as per a report from National Centre for Biotechnology Information in 2019, Jharkhand had an estimated cervical cancer incidence rate of 13.6 per 100,000 women, with mortality at 8.1 per 100,000 women. A cervical cancer incidence rate of 13.6 per 100,000 women and a mortality rate of 8.1 per 100,000 women indicate a significant health burden. The high mortality suggests late diagnosis, poor access to treatment, or lack of awareness.

Asarfi Cancer Institute, located in Dhanbad, Jharkhand, is a trusted centre for comprehensive cancer care. It is known for its modern treatments, expert doctors, and patient-focused care. The institute is dedicated to providing affordable, high-quality treatment for all patients, ensuring that even those in remote areas can get the best medical care.

 

Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Cancer

Just like most of the cases, cervical cancer is known to grow without any significant signs at the early stages. These scale of the signs and symptoms of cervical cancer are sometimes so negligible, that woman often tend to ignore these problems. It’s only when the cancer starts showing disturbing changes when a woman understands it.

Irregular vaginal bleeding is one of the most common cervical cancer signs. This may happen anytime between periods, after sex, or after menopause (so don’t ignore this sign thinking that it might be unusual period). Profuse bleeding that doesn’t seem normal, or bleeding that lasts longer than usual might be a clear indication that you must visit a doctor.

Vaginal discharge that sometimes has a strong foul smell, sometimes contain blood, might be watery is one of the symptoms of cervical cancer.

Pain during sex is one of the symptoms of cervical cancer due to the hampered tissues in the cervix. Well not all sexual pain is a message of cervical cancer; however, the primary point of regular health screening plays a huge role to determine the cause of it.

As the disease spreads, pain may appear in the pelvis, lower back, or legs. Some women also experience swelling in the legs due to blocked blood flow.

If the cancer affects the bladder or bowel, it may cause pain while urinating, constipation, or blood in urine. Feeling tired all the time, losing weight without trying, or having a low appetite are also possible signs.

These symptoms can be caused by other conditions too. But if they last for more than a few weeks, it is important to see a doctor. Early detection saves lives. Regular Pap smears and HPV tests help catch cervical cancer early, when treatment is most effective. Stay aware, stay safe.

 

Causes of Cervical Cancer

The leading cause of cervical cancer is Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus spread through sexual contact. Certain high-risk HPV strains can cause abnormal cell growth in the cervix, which may lead to cancer over time.

While HPV is very common, not all infections lead to cancer. A strong immune system often clears the virus naturally. However, in some cases, the infection lingers and causes precancerous changes.

Several risk factors increase the chances of developing cervical cancer:

• Smoking weakens the immune system and makes it harder to fight HPV infections.
• A weakened immune system, such as in people with HIV, increases the risk.
• Long-term use of birth control pills (more than five years) may slightly raise the risk.
• Multiple sexual partners or having a partner with multiple partners increases HPV exposure.
• Giving birth to many children may also be linked to a higher risk.

The good news is that cervical cancer is highly preventable. Regular Pap smears and HPV tests help detect early changes in cervical cells. The HPV vaccine also protects against high-risk strains of the virus.

Early detection and prevention are the keys to saving lives. Stay informed, stay safe.

 

Comprehensive Cancer Care at Asarfi Cancer Institute

Asarfi Cancer Institute follows a complete and holistic approach to comprehensive cervical cancer care. The cancer hospital provides support at every stage of the disease, like - prevention and diagnosis, treatment and follow-up care and other relevant cancer care supports.

1. Prevention & Screening of Cervical Cancer

Prevention is the best way to reduce cervical cancer cases. The institute focuses on awareness programs to educate women about the importance of regular screening and vaccination. There are loads of information available on our website and social media handles which you click and watch later.

• HPV Vaccination – The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the leading cause of cervical cancer. Vaccination at an early age can prevent most cases. Asarfi Cancer Institute spreads awareness about the benefits of the HPV vaccine.
• Pap Smear & HPV Testing – A Pap smear test helps detect abnormal cells before they turn into cancer. The institute encourages women to get regular screenings for early detection.

 

2. Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer

The accuracy of cervical cancer diagnosis is very important to find out the best possible treatment for it. Asarfi cancer institute uses modern technology to detect cervical cancer at different stages.

 

 

• Colposcopy – A colposcopy is a procedure that closely examines the cervix, vagina, and vulva for signs of disease using a special instrument called a colposcope. It is often performed when cervical screening tests, such as Pap smears, show abnormal results. The procedure helps detect precancerous or cancerous cells, allowing for early intervention and treatment.
• Biopsy – A small tissue sample is tested to confirm if cancer is present.
• Advanced Imaging Tests – Tests like MRI, CT scan, and PET scan help doctors understand the spread of the disease.

3. Treatment of Cervical Cancer

The institute offers personalized treatment plans based on the patient’s condition and cancer stage.

• Surgery – If detected early, cancerous tissues can be removed through surgery. In some cases, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus and cervix) is required.
• Radiation Therapy – High-energy rays are used to kill cancer cells. This is often combined with chemotherapy. 
• Chemotherapy – Powerful drugs are given to kill or stop the growth of cancer cells. It is used when cancer has spread beyond the cervix.

4. Rehabilitation & Follow-up Care

Treatment does not end after surgery or chemotherapy. Recovery and regular checkups are very important to prevent cancer from coming back.

• Physical Recovery – After surgery or radiation, patients may need help regaining strength. Asarfi cancer hospital provides physiotherapy and suggestions on proper nutrition.
• Regular Monitoring – The oncologists in Asarfi Cancer Hospital make sure that every follow up procedure like doctor visits, checkups, blood tests, and scans to verify that the cancer has not returned or not showing any signs of returning.
• Mental & Emotional Support – A disease like cancer beats people emotionally, mentally and it’s evident on the physical part. Some of the best cancer doctors provide their services at Asarfi cancer hospital and they provide counselling and support groups to help patients cope with stress and anxiety.

 

5. Palliative Care

 

For patients with advanced cervical cancer, palliative care focuses on comfort and quality of life.

• Pain Management – Specialized doctors help in controlling the pain with medication and therapies.
• Emotional & Family Support – Patients and their families receive guidance on how to handle the challenges of the disease.

 

Advanced Cervical Cancer Treatment Modalities

Targeted Therapy for Cervical Cancer

One of the cervical cancer treatments available in modern days is targeted therapy. It focuses on specific molecules in cancer cells. Cancer specialists, seasoned oncologists and experienced doctors have beautifully stated that chemotherapy affects both healthy and cancerous cells and targeted therapy works by blocking certain proteins or genes that help cancer grow and spread.

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which promotes blood vessel growth in tumours is one of the most common targets in cervical cancer. Once you talk to your doctor, they might give you medicines that stop VEGF and cut off the tumour’s blood supply which slows down its growth.

Medical oncologists also suggest another approach which involves targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) as it controls cell division. Blocking EGFR is tested to prevent cancer from spreading.

To make the treatment outcomes better, radiotherapy and chemotherapy are the two options which are considered by the cancer specialists alongside targeted therapy. Targeted therapy is precise, and the condition of the tumour’s genetic alteration prevents many patients from qualifying for targeted therapy.

Doctors test cancer cells to determine if targeted therapy will work. Personalised treatment plans help improve survival rates and reduce damage to healthy tissues. Research is ongoing to develop more targeted drugs for cervical cancer.

High Dose Rate (HDR) Brachytherapy for Cervical Cancer

High Dose Rate (HDR) Brachytherapy is an advanced form of internal radiation therapy used to treat cervical cancer. It involves placing a small radioactive source directly into or near the tumour, delivering a high dose of radiation while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. This targeted approach helps in effectively destroying cancer cells with fewer side effects than conventional radiation therapy.

HDR Brachytherapy is typically administered in multiple sessions over a few days or weeks. The treatment is often combined with external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) for optimal results. It is particularly effective in locally advanced cervical cancer cases where the tumour is confined to the cervix and surrounding tissues.

Patients undergoing HDR Brachytherapy may experience mild discomfort, but the procedure is generally well tolerated. Common side effects include temporary vaginal irritation, urinary symptoms, and mild fatigue. However, due to its localized nature, HDR Brachytherapy reduces long-term radiation damage to nearby organs like the bladder and rectum.

Studies have shown that HDR Brachytherapy significantly improves survival rates and quality of life for cervical cancer patients. Asarfi Cancer Institute employs state-of-the-art brachytherapy equipment and expert radiation oncologists to ensure precise and effective treatment for each patient.

Surgical Oncology for Cervical Cancer

Surgical intervention plays a crucial role in the management of cervical cancer, especially in early-stage cases. Different surgical procedures are available based on the stage of cancer, overall health of the patient, and reproductive goals.

1. Conization (Cone Biopsy): A minimally invasive procedure where a cone-shaped tissue sample is removed from the cervix. It is mainly used for diagnosing and treating early-stage cervical cancer or precancerous lesions.
2. Hysterectomy: This is the removal of the uterus and cervix. It can be simple hysterectomy (removal of the uterus and cervix) or radical hysterectomy (removal of the uterus, cervix, part of the vagina, and surrounding tissues).
3. Trachelectomy: A fertility-sparing surgery that removes the cervix while preserving the uterus. This is an option for younger women who wish to have children in the future.
4. Pelvic Exenteration: A more extensive surgery used in recurrent cervical cancer cases. It involves the removal of the cervix, uterus, bladder, rectum, and part of the vagina if necessary.

The expert surgical oncology team at Asarfi Cancer Institute employs cutting-edge technology, including robotic-assisted and laparoscopic techniques, to ensure minimal invasion, faster recovery, and improved patient outcomes.

Radiation Oncology

Radiation therapy is a cornerstone in cervical cancer treatment. It works by using high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells or shrink tumours. The most common form of radiation used is External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT).

External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT):

• EBRT delivers radiation from an external machine targeting the tumour site.
• It is often used in combination with chemotherapy (chemoradiation) for improved effectiveness.
• Sessions are typically administered five days a week over several weeks.
• Advanced technologies like Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) and Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT) allow precise delivery of radiation, reducing damage to healthy tissues.

Side effects of EBRT may include skin irritation, fatigue, nausea, and changes in bowel or bladder function. However, Asarfi Cancer Institute’s radiation oncology team ensures personalized treatment planning to minimize complications and enhance patient comfort.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. It is commonly used in combination with radiation therapy (chemoradiation) or as a standalone treatment in advanced or metastatic cervical cancer.

Preventive Oncology Initiatives

Preventing cervical cancer is possible through early detection and proactive interventions.

1. Screening Programs:
• Regular Pap smear tests and HPV DNA tests help detect premalignant lesions before they turn into cancer.
• Community-based and hospital-based screening programs ensure wider reach and early diagnosis.
2. HPV Vaccination Programs:
• Vaccination against high-risk HPV strains (16 & 18) significantly reduces the risk of cervical cancer.
• Public health campaigns promote HPV vaccination for young girls and women.
3. Awareness Campaigns:
• Educational workshops, media campaigns, and outreach programs encourage early screening and vaccination.

Asarfi Cancer Institute actively collaborates with public health organizations to implement preventive measures and spread awareness.

Collaborations and Accreditations

Asarfi Cancer Institute works with leading cancer research organizations to bring the latest treatments and technologies to patients.

• The institute collaborates with national and international cancer centres to improve treatment methods and conduct research.
• It is accredited by NABH (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers) and NABL (National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories). These accreditations ensure high standards of cancer care and laboratory services.

Through these partnerships and recognitions, Asarfi Cancer Institute continues to provide world-class cervical cancer treatment in Jharkhand and beyond.

Diet for Cervical Cancer Prevention and Recovery

A balanced diet (necessary nutrition rich) regime can prevent cervical cancer, just like many other health hazards. Not only does it help in overall health, but it also helps in controlling cancerous cells from growing, supporting ongoing treatment and fast recovery.

Balanced diet means that you must fulfil the nutrient daily which our body require to function properly. Vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, protein, fats and water are the essential nutrients which our body requires. To help you, here’s a chart including local, Indian diet which is easily available at home.

Remember that a balanced diet can strengthen the immune system and reduce cancer risk.

Key Nutrients for Cervical Cancer Prevention & Recovery

 

 

 

Diet chart for cervical cancer care at Asarfi Cancer Institute, Dhanbad. Includes fruits, green veggies, and whole grains for better recovery and health

Nutrient	Benefits	Food Sources
Antioxidants	Reduce cell damage, fight free radicals	Berries, green tea, carrots
Folate	Helps prevent abnormal cell growth	Spinach, beans, oranges
Vitamin C	Boosts immunity, aids healing	Citrus fruits, amla, bell peppers
Vitamin A	Promotes cell health	Carrots, sweet potatoes, papaya
Omega-3 Fats	Reduces inflammation, supports brain health	Flaxseeds, walnuts, fish
Probiotics	Improves gut health, enhances immunity	Curd, buttermilk, fermented foods
Fiber	Aids digestion, removes toxins	Whole grains, lentils, vegetables

 

Indian Diet Chart for Cervical Cancer Prevention & Recovery

Meal	Foods for Prevention	Foods for Recovery
Early Morning	Warm water with lemon, soaked almonds	Herbal tea, soaked walnuts
Breakfast	Ragi dosa with chutney, fruit salad	Oats with nuts, vegetable poha
Mid-Morning	Green smoothie (spinach, banana, flaxseeds)	Fresh fruit, coconut water
Lunch	Brown rice, dal, sabzi, curd, salad	Khichdi with ghee, steamed vegetables
Evening Snack	Makhana, herbal tea	Sprouts chaat, turmeric milk
Dinner	Roti, sabzi, dal, curd	Soft chapati, paneer sabzi, vegetable soup
Before Bed	Warm turmeric milk	Almond milk, chamomile tea

 

Foods to Avoid

• Processed and fried foods
• Excess sugar and refined flour (maida)
• Alcohol and tobacco
• Red and processed meat
• Artificial sweeteners and preservatives

Healthy Lifestyle Choices

A healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of cervical cancer and improve recovery. Follow these simple habits:

• Regular exercise helps your body rejuvenate itself. Stay active with yoga, walking, or light workouts.
• Always stay hydrated and to do this, drink at least 8 glasses of water daily.
• Practicing stress management helps in walks of life. It benefits you physically, emotionally and mentally. To achieve a good level of stress management, start practicing meditation, deep breathing, or hobbies and activities you like.
• It is very necessary to get adequate sleep regularly to stay healthy. Create a sleep regimen according to your lifestyle and stick to it with discipline. Get 7-8 hours of sleep for better immunity.
• There are multiple bad habits that destroy your body in many ways and two of them are addiction - alcohol, smoking, substance, rich food and sedentary lifestyle. Try to avoid bad habits at all costs as they trigger cancerous cells to grow.
• Even though this is explained through ads, videos, banners, newspapers and multiple other sources, people generally tend to avoid screenings due to lack of awareness. Get regular Health check-ups and routine screenings and pap smear tests to understand, avoid or control cervical cancer.

A well-balanced diet rich in natural, nutrient-dense foods can help in both preventing cervical cancer and improving recovery. Pairing this with healthy lifestyle choices as mentioned above and as prescribed by your doctor further enhances overall health and well-being.

Conclusion

Asarfi Cancer Institute remains committed to fighting cervical cancer with advanced treatments, expert care, and strong awareness programs. The institute provides comprehensive services, including HPV vaccination, Pap smear testing, and modern treatment options like radiation therapy and surgery.

Women in Dhanbad and Jharkhand can access affordable, high-quality cervical cancer care at Asarfi Cancer Institute. Early detection saves lives, and the institute encourages all women to go for regular screenings and preventive checkups.

With latest technology and compassionate care, Asarfi Cancer Institute is pioneering hope and better survival rates for cervical cancer patients. Every woman deserves a healthy and cancer-free life, and Asarfi Cancer Institute is here to make that possible.