DHAKA, May 2, 2026 (BSS/AFP) - Health experts have called for a nationwide push to expand cervical cancer screening, boost uptake of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine and intensify public awareness campaigns, warning that stigma and late diagnosis continue to drive preventable deaths from the disease.

"People need to understand that this is not a matter of shame, but rather a preventable and treatable health issue," said Dr Sohelee Nargis, Associate Professor (Obstetrics and Gynaecology) at Ahsania Mission Cancer and General Hospital.

She noted that if detected at an early stage, the chances of successful treatment of cervical cancer are much higher.

However, due to lack of awareness and social stigma, most patients seek medical care at a later stage, making treatment more complicated, she added.

She further said that cervical cancer generally develops gradually over about 10 years and often shows no symptoms in its early stages.

As a result, without regular screening, the disease may progress unnoticed, she said.

When symptoms do appear, they may include abnormal vaginal discharge, irregular bleeding, especially after intercourse or post-menopause, and, in advanced stages, lower abdominal or back pain, said Dr Nargis.

She also said the main cause of cervical cancer is the human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly types 16 and 18.

It is usually transmitted through sexual contact, and persistent infection can gradually lead to abnormal changes in cervical cells, she noted.

Women aged between 35 and 55 are at higher risk, she added.

Early marriage and sexual activity, multiple sexual partners, repeated pregnancies, poor personal hygiene and smoking increase the risk of the disease, she said.

According to health experts, strengthening three pillars, regular screening, vaccination and widespread awareness, can significantly reduce the burden of cervical cancer in the country.

As the first pillar of prevention, experts stressed the importance of regular screening.

Deputy Chief Medical Officer of BIRDEM General Hospital and former Senior Medical Officer (Obstetrics and Gynaecology) Dr Syeda Riffat Binta Habib said the low-cost VIA (visual inspection with acetic acid) method is being used in the country, which is recommended for women aged 30 to 60.

Pap smear and HPV DNA tests are also available. However, many women are unaware that these tests are accessible and often affordable, she added.

Even when aware, many are reluctant to undergo screening due to shame, fear and misconceptions, she said.

The second pillar is vaccination. According to experts, the HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing cervical cancer, especially among girls aged 9 to 13.

In Bangladesh, the vaccine has been introduced under the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) since 2023 and its coverage is gradually expanding, said Dr Syeda Riffat.

However, misconceptions about the vaccine persist, with some believing it to be harmful or unnecessary, which is hindering progress in vaccination efforts, she added.

The third and most important pillar is public awareness. A clear lack of awareness exists in both urban and rural areas.

Many women are not even familiar with the disease, while others have only partial knowledge. As a result, they delay seeking necessary screening or treatment. According to physicians, this delay remains the biggest challenge.

Dr Nargis believes that awareness cannot be increased without coordinated efforts from the media, educational institutions, families and the healthcare sector.

Introducing health education at the school level, regular media campaigns, community-based awareness programmes and open discussions on women's health are essential, she added.

Families also need to encourage women to overcome fear and stigma and seek regular health check-ups, she said.

Dr Syeda Riffat said local health workers can play a crucial role in raising awareness. If they engage directly with women at the community level and explain the issue in simple terms, fear and misconceptions can be reduced.

Involving religious and community leaders can also be effective, as people tend to value their guidance.