HGE’s Lilac Room promotes action against cervical cancer by offering rapid tests

News reporter: Thallysson Alves
Photographic Reporter: Beatriz Castro

Cervical cancer is the third most common cancer among the female population and the fourth cause of death among women in Brazil, according to the Ministry of Health (MS). It is caused by persistent infection with some types of Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a virus that can be transmitted through sexual intercourse. Sensitive to this, the Lilac Room at the State General Hospital (HGE), in Maceió, promoted, this Monday (18), an action for women’s health and prevention.

Genital infection with these viruses is very common and most of the time does not cause disease, which can be a serious risk to life for those who do not have regular check-ups. To provide opportunities for those people who claim they do not have time, rapid screening tests for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) were offered free of charge to all interested parties.

“This action of ours is aimed exclusively at women and aims to alert them to the symptoms of STIs and the various forms of prevention. We want them to understand that our action aims to provide more information on access to prevention and diagnostic services, to offer rapid tests and provide the necessary receptions for those in need”, explained Tatiane Barbosa, coordinator of Sala Lilás, which is linked to the Network of Attention to Violence.

Andreya Honorato is a medical intern. She adds that the action is strategic for the post-festival period, such as Carnival, when there are still people who are exposed to the risk of contamination. The action, according to her, is necessary for all women after the start of their sexual life, as the exam can detect early pre-cancerous changes which, if treated, are cured in almost all cases, without progressing to cancer.

“It is interesting that you, who are also receiving this information, find some time to take your tests that can reveal how your health is. Prevention is the best alternative, as it protects us and avoids any scare, as well as its consequences. Against HPV, get vaccines and use condoms during sexual reaction”, advised the student.

The main form of prevention is the HPV vaccine, available for girls aged 9 to 14 and boys aged 11 to 14, in all Basic Health Units (UBS), which can prevent 70% of cervical and 90% of genital warts. And in cases where there are cellular changes that can develop into cancer, the Pap smear can identify them early, which will make all the difference during the healing process.