Cervical cancer is a serious health concern for women, but advancements in gynecologic oncology have made early diagnosis and treatment highly effective. This cancer develops in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Understanding the stages of cervical cancer is important in planning the right treatment and improving patient results. Early diagnosis through routine screenings like Pap smears and HPV tests significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.
In this article, Dr. Kanika Batra Modi, the best cervical cancer surgeon in Delhi, discusses the different stages of cervical cancer and the best available treatment options. If you are seeking the best cervical cancer treatment in Delhi, expert care from a qualified gynecologic oncologist in Delhi can significantly improve your recovery and treatment results.
What Are the Stages of Cervical Cancer and Its Treatment Approaches?
Cervical cancer is classified into five main stages, ranging from Stage 0 (pre-cancer) to Stage IV (advanced cancer). The severity of the disease and treatment options depend on how far the cancer has spread.
Stage 0: Carcinoma in Situ
This is the earliest stage, where abnormal cells are found only in the cervix and have not spread deeper into the tissues. There is a high survival rate with prompt treatment.
Treatment options include:
- Cryotherapy (freezing abnormal cells)
- Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP)
- Laser therapy to remove affected cells
Stage I: Localized Cancer
At this stage, cancer is confined to the cervix but has penetrated deeper into the tissue. There is a high survival rate, with most patients living beyond five years after treatment. It is further divided into:
- Stage IA: Cancer cells that are only diagnosed under a microscope.
- Stage IB: Cancer that is evident but still localized.
Treatment options include:
- Surgery (hysterectomy or conization for fertility preservation)
- Radiation therapy (for cases unsuitable for surgery)
Stage II: Beyond the Cervix
In this stage, cancer extends beyond the cervix but has not reached the pelvic wall or lower vagina. The five-year survival rate ranges from 63% to 75% depending on tumor spread. It is categorized as:
- Stage IIA: Spreading to the upper vagina.
- Stage IIB: Invasion into nearby tissues.
Treatment options include:
- Radiation therapy combined with chemotherapy
- In some cases, radical hysterectomy may be necessary
Stage III: Advanced Local Spread
At this stage, cancer affects the lower vagina or pelvic walls and may obstruct the ureters (kidney tubes). The five -year survival rate is between 47% and 50%. Subcategories include:
- Stage IIIA: Spread to the lower third of the vagina.
- Stage IIIB: Extended to the pelvic walls and may impact kidney function.
Treatment options include:
- Chemoradiation (radiation plus chemotherapy)
- Targeted therapies may be considered for advanced cases
Stage IV: Metastatic Cervical Cancer
The most advanced stage where cancer spreads to nearby organs (bladder, rectum) or distant sites (lungs, liver, bones). Five-year survival rate is around 15-20%. It is divided into:
- Stage IVA: Local spread to organs near the cervix.
- Stage IVB: Distant metastasis beyond the pelvic region.
Treatment options include:
- Chemotherapy and targeted therapy to slow progression
- Palliative care to improve quality of life
- Surgery in select cases for symptom management
What Is the Importance of Early Detection and Treatment of Cervical Cancer?
The treatment approach for cervical cancer highly depends on its stage at diagnosis. Early-stage cancer can often be treated successfully with surgery, while advanced cases require a combination of radiation, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. Routine Pap smears and HPV vaccinations play an important role in preventing cervical cancer or detecting it in its earliest, most treatable stages.
Where to Get the Best Cervical Cancer Treatment in Delhi?
Delhi is home to some of the finest cancer treatment facilities, offering world-class care for cervical cancer patients. When it comes to expert gynecologic oncology care, Dr. Kanika Batra Modi is widely recognized as the best gynecologic oncologist in Delhi. With extensive experience in treating cervical cancer, she provides personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
If you or a loved one is seeking the best cervical cancer surgery in Delhi, don’t delay. Early treatment can bring the best results. Book an appointment with Dr. Kanika Batra Modi, the best cervical cancer surgeon in Delhi, today for a healthier future.