Asha Kumari, 63 yrs, was suffering from continuous post menopausal bleeding for the last 8 days. This was an exceptionally personal medical issue and she felt uncomfortable discussing it with anyone. With no reputed gynaecologists in Gaya, she felt confused. Finally after a lot of persuasion she decided to talk to one of the local doctors. “I had severe abdominal pain and my bleeding was heavy, I was certain that it was a big complication. The local doctors suggested that I consult a cancer specialist in Patna,” shares Asha Kumari.
Accompanied by her husband Asha Kumari consulted Dr. Shekhar Keshri, Sr.Consultant Radiation Oncology, Paras Cancer Centre, Patna. Post initial diagnostic tests and physical examination, it was concluded that Asha was suffering from Cervical Cancer.
According to Dr. Shekhar Keshri, “Cervical Cancer is the most common type affecting the women in rural India. Majority of them tend to ignore their signs and symptoms and finally come to a hospital for medical assistance in the later stages of cancer. Cervical Cancer is caused due to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). In fact, it is estimated that women at the age of 50 yrs are at the highest risk of developing cervical cancer. For most women the HPV infection does not last long; 90% of HPV infections resolve on their own within 2 years. A small number of women do not clear the HPV virus and are considered to have persistent infection. A woman with a persistent HPV infection is at greater risk of developing cervical cell abnormalities and cancer than a woman whose infection resolves on its own.”
Dr. Shekhar further states, “Asha was experiencing typical signs and symptoms of cervical cancer. Abnormal bleeding post menopause, pelvic pain, abdominal bloating, heavy or unusual discharge that is thick and foul smelling, increased urination and pain during urination. In fact a number of women also experience bleeding after a pelvic exam, sexual intercourse or douching. If anyone is experiencing the same, she should immediately consult a specialist – a gynaecologist or cancer doctor – at the earliest.”
Cervical Cancer can be diagnosed by using simple diagnostic tests such as – ultrasound, Pap Smear Test, X-rays, CT scan, MRI, and a PET scan. For treatment, a combination of modalities is implemented, depending upon the stage of the caner and the extent of its growth.
For Asha Kumari, Dr. Shekhar Keshri suggested for the external beam Radiotherapy followed by Brachytherapy , to remove the cancerous cells Since this is the best option available for CA cervix patients worldwide.
Today Asha Kumari is well and healthy. Asha shares, “It has been 3 years post my treatment. Today I am healthy and fit as ever. I owe it to the treatment, care & guidance that I got at Paras Cancer Centre. Dr. Shekhar Keshri is now like my son, who supported me in my time of need. God bless him”
