CERVICAL cancer stands as the second most common cancer found among Indian women. While discussions around the disease have increased, deep-rooted misconceptions and significant social stigma continue to hinder prevention efforts. To save lives, awareness and action are needed, and the myths need to be addressed.
Common myths vs reality: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the main reason for developing this cancer. One prevalent falsehood claims that HPV only affects women with multiple partners. In reality, many sexually active men and women encounter it, even from a single exposure, as it’s a common skin-to-skin transmitted virus. It is a near-universal infection and does not reflect on a person’s character.