47-year-old actress Dolly Sohi, who acted in TV shows like Bhabhi, Kumkum Bhagya and Parineeti, died at a hospital in Navi Mumbai on Friday morning. She was suffering from cervical cancer which had spread to her lungs. She was diagnosed about six months ago and was undergoing treatment for the disease. Sadly, his younger sister Amandeep Sohi, also an actor, suffered from jaundice a day earlier. (Also Read | Cervical Cancer Awareness Month: 8 benefits of HPV vaccine beyond cervical cancer prevention)
Cervical cancer is a growth of cells that begins in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Various HPV (human papillomavirus) strains that are contracted through sexual contact cause cervical cancer. When not treated in time, it can spread or metastasize to other organs.
“Cervical cancer, cancer of the lower part of the uterus called the cervix, is the leading cause of death for women in our country. Breast cancer has currently become the leading cause of female death in our country, however, cervical cancer Cancer still leads the statistics,” says Dr. Rahul Manchanda, Hon. Senior Consultant (Endoscopic Gynaecology), PSRI Hospital, New Delhi.
What is Metastatic Cancer?
“Metastatic cervical cancer is an advanced stage of the disease and can spread beyond the cervix to other tissues or organs. It can affect the lungs, bones, liver, etc. Survival rates when the cancer has spread to other organs The incidence is low but can be managed with chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Metastatic cervical cancer originates in the cervix but spreads to other parts of the body, usually through the lymphatic system or bloodstream. Common sites of metastasis also involves the lungs, liver, bones, and distant lymph nodes,” says Dr. Rowley. Banthia, Consultant-Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yatharth Hospital, Noida Extension.
“Metastatic cervical cancer refers to cancer that has spread beyond the cervix. It may spread to organs close to the cervix, such as the vagina, bladder or intestines. The cancer can also metastasize to the lungs, brain and bones. The risk is higher when the cancer spreads to other organs. Mortality rates are higher. Treatment options for metastatic cervical cancer include chemotherapy and radiotherapy instead of surgery, depending on the specific type of cancer, says Dr. Manchanda.
low survival rate
“The survival rate for metastatic cervical cancer is lower than for early-stage cancer. While the 5-year survival rate for early-stage cervical cancer is approximately 90%, for metastatic cancer, it is an extremely low 20%. or even less which exposes them to an increased risk of death. Therefore it is important to be cognizant of this fact and prioritize regular Pap smear testing and vaccination for our young girls as cervical vaccination can prevent more than 95 per cent of cases of cervical cancer. Cancer can be prevented,” says Dr Manchanda.
Symptoms of Metastatic Cancer
Dr. Banthia says, “In metastatic cervical cancer, patients may experience a variety of symptoms, the most prominent symptoms include foul-smelling vaginal discharge and fleshy masses. Additionally, weight loss, fatigue, and loss of appetite may occur. General symptoms such as numbness may be present.”
Metastatic cancer treatment
Treatment of metastatic cervical cancer aims to control the spread of the disease, reduce symptoms, and improve quality of life.
While metastatic cancer is generally considered incurable, there are various treatment options available to help manage the condition. These may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and palliative care, says Dr. Banthia.
- Chemotherapy, often in combination with targeted therapy or immunotherapy, is commonly used to shrink tumors and slow disease progression.
- Radiation therapy may be used to reduce symptoms such as pain or bleeding, especially if the cancer has spread to the bones or is causing compression of nearby structures.
- Immunotherapy drugs, which help the body’s immune system recognize and attack cancer cells, have shown good results in some cases of metastatic cervical cancer.
- In addition, palliative care plays an important role in managing symptoms and improving quality of life in patients with metastatic cervical cancer, focusing on pain management, psychological support, and assistance with daily activities.
It is important to note that treatment decisions are generally individualized based on factors such as the extent of metastasis, overall health status, and patient preferences.
