The Waiting Game

The Waiting game

                2 months ago I went to the dentist because I cracked my molar. The dentist told me that I needed to do a root canal operation and then a new molar cap will be inserted. I am a doctor and I know what happens if I delay treatment. Sure enough I am writing this article while a horrendous ache lies deep in my gums and pointing a finger at me saying “I told you to get it treated earlier”. There has been a tremendous leap in the world of Preventive medicine in the past few years. The one development that caught my attention is the Vaccine against Cervical Cancer. The development of a vaccine against cancer is exactly what the world needs. The number of people affected by Cancer every year is just shocking. I am sure, you know of someone who has cancer or died of cancer. 

There is now a prevention against cervical cancer which is one of the most common cancer affecting females. In Indonesia, Cervical Cancer ranks number 1. A report in one of the leading hospitals in Indonesia stated that out of the 8000 females diagnosed with cancer in 2002, 2500 of them had Cervical Cancer. I was in complete shock to see this figure. Cervical Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in Indonesia. The bright side to this is that a vaccine that can prevent it up to 70% is now available. If you are a girl between the age of 12 -24 years and you have not got the vaccine, ensure that you make an appointment with your family physician and request to get vaccinated. 

                If you are not yet convinced or you are planning to delay the vaccination for another year maybe these few points will encourage you to get vaccinated

1. It decreases your chance of developing Cervical Cancer by 70%
2. Its only documented side effects are low grade fever and pain at the injection site
3. It is cost effective. A women diagnosed with Cervical Cancer can spend up to 100 to 150 thousand US dollars to treat the cancer. To get vaccinated it cost about 200 US dollar
4. Cervical Cancer can affect females as young as 35 years old.
5. It is widely available.

In life we are faced with so many issues. Wouldn’t it be amazing and mind soothing if you know that you are protected against cancer. Strike the iron when it is hot. Do not wait another day to get vaccinated. If you are encouraged now, ensure you do not procrastinate like the doctor who is writing this article. It could prove to be a very painful experience. Centrepoint Healthcare provides the Cervical Cancer vaccine. We are located in Midplaza 1, basement floor, Jl Sudirman. For an appointment call 5706208