Integrative medicine specialist Dr. Dana Cohen, who graduated from St. George’s University (SGU) School of Medicine in the Caribbean, shares advice on how to reduce the risk of this deadly disease through daily holistic wellness practices.
Cervical Cancer Causes and Risk Factors
Understanding the causes and risk factors of cervical cancer is crucial for effective prevention. The primary cause is persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Most HPV infections clear up naturally without causing significant harm. However, persistent infections can lead to changes in the cells of the cervix, eventually forming a mass of cancerous cells called a tumor. These malignant cells can invade and destroy healthy body tissue and spread to other parts of the body.
Other risk factors include smoking, a weakened immune system, genetic predisposition, and lack of screening.
Cervical Cancer Prevention Tips
- Vaccination and Regular Screenings: The most effective preventative measure is getting vaccinated for HPV. Regular Pap smears and HPV tests are also crucial for early detection and treatment of pre-cancerous conditions.
- Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly impact cervical health outcomes. These holistic methods support the immune system and reduce cervical cancer risk:
Nourish Your Immune System with Functional Nutrition
- Medicinal Mushrooms: Adaptogenic mushrooms like chaga, shiitake, and lion’s mane enhance immune function and have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Vitamin C: Found in citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers, vitamin C boosts the immune response.
- Folate: Present in lentils, eggs, spinach, and bananas, folate is essential for DNA synthesis and cell division. Low folate levels are linked to higher rates of cervical cancer from HPV.
- Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration supports the immune system by maintaining blood volume and circulation, ensuring immune cells travel efficiently. It also helps remove toxins, enhancing the immune response.
Reduce Stress
Chronic stress weakens the immune system. Stress reduction activities include mindfulness, meditation, regular physical activity, and holistic therapies like aromatherapy, acupuncture, and massage.
To reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer, individuals can incorporate proper nutrition, hydration, and stress reduction into their daily routines. Strengthening the immune system through these lifestyle changes, combined with proper vaccination and regular screenings, can significantly lower the risk.
By adopting these preventative measures, women in South Korea can take proactive steps to protect their health and reduce the burden of cervical cancer.
St. George’s University (SGU) is a center for academic excellence worldwide. With students and faculty drawn from more than 150 countries, SGU is truly an international institution, with a uniquely global perspective. The SGU School of Medicine is accredited by the Grenada Medical and Dental Council which has been recognized by the World Federation for Medical Education (WFME). The school offers a four-year Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree program. Students can also enter the MD degree program from any education system around the world via the five-, six-, or seven-year pathways. SGU has a large network of 75+ affiliated hospitals and health centers in the US and UK, with the unique opportunity for students to begin their medical career in Grenada or the UK.
