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UPSC » Daily News Analysis ‘Aiims Researchers Develop Blood Test To Monitor Cervical Cancer Treatment’ : 10 April

Daily News Analysis ‘Aiims Researchers Develop Blood Test To Monitor Cervical Cancer Treatment’ : 10 April

Table of Content

About the blood test to monitor cervical cancer treatment:

  • The test measures circulating DNA fragments of high-risk HPV strains (HPV16 & HPV18), which closely reflect tumour size.
  • Viral DNA levels decrease with treatment, providing a real-time view of how the cancer is responding.

Benefits:

  • It could transform cervical cancer monitoring in India, where it is the second most common cancer among women.
  • The blood test offers a low-cost option compared to routine scans and screenings, which can be a barrier to consistent cancer care.
  • Blood biomarkers may detect cancer recurrence earlier than imaging scans.
  • May also help in initial diagnosis and staging alongside or in place of biopsies.

Cervical Cancer:

  • Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cells of the cervix — the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. 
  • It is primarily caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV), especially HPV16 and HPV18. 
  • Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers among women in India but is also one of the few preventable cancers through vaccination and regular screening.
  • Common screening methods include Pap smear tests and visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA). Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes. 
  • Preventive HPV vaccination for girls aged 9–14 is also being promoted to reduce the incidence of this disease.

Why in News?

Researchers at AIIMS, Delhi have developed a blood test that may help track treatment response or detect relapse in cervical cancer patients.