Cervical Cancer: The Role of Health Educators in the Prevention of Control Cervical Cancer

The purpose of this paper was to identify the roles of health educators in the prevention of cervical cancer. Cervical cancer affects the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina, and remains a leading cause of cancer deaths among women in Africa including Nigeria. The paper noted that multiple sexual partners, smoking, viral infection and unhealthy eating habits increase the risk of cervical cancer. Signs and symptoms discussed include vaginal bleeding after sex, watery or strong-smelling vaginal discharge, pelvic pain during sex, difficulty or painful bowel movement or urination, swelling in the legs and abdominal pains. It concluded that with appropriate health education, knowledge, awareness and the right attitude, cervical cancer can be prevented. It recommended massive public enlightenment through electronic, print and social media to increase knowledge and screening awareness.