Good nutrition helps the body function at an optimal level, but during cancer and its treatment, it can be difficult to follow a healthy diet. Nausea or vomiting can make eating unpleasant and even painful, and food may not be appealing at a time when nutrients are needed most. While nutrition cannot prevent or cure cervical cancer, getting adequate nutrition builds strength, promotes healing and contributes to good health.
Significance
In the United States in 2010, approximately 12,200 new diagnoses of cervical cancer will be made, and over 4,000 women will die from the disease, according to the National Cancer Institute. It is typically a slow growing cancer, which is why yearly Pap smears can help make an early diagnosis.
Risk Factors
A variety of risk factors increases the likelihood of developing cervical cancer. According to the University of Iowa, diets deficient in vitamins A, C and E, as well as folate, have been associated with a higher rate of cervical cancer. Foods that contain these vitamins include eggs, dairy products, fruits and vegetables, nuts and dried beans. A review of nutritional data in the journal "Cancer Causes and Control" found that low vitamin C and carotenoids were associated with higher rates of cervical cancer, and low folate levels were related to precancerous cervical lesions.
During and After Cancer Treatment
The three main types of treatment for cervical cancer include surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, says the American Cancer Society. Good nutrition is important during treatment to maintain strength, help the body's tissues heal and reduce the risk of treatment side effects and infection, according to the American Cancer Society. Due to the demands of cancer treatment, many patients need to maintain their calorie consumption, despite lack of hunger and other side effects. The National Cancer Institute recommends adding meal replacement drinks for added calories, making sure to get protein with meals, and eating whenever hunger strikes. Staying hydrated, even when not able to eat, is important during treatment, says the National Cancer Institute. Once treatment ends, maintaining good nutrition is important to build muscle, repair the body and promote optimal health.
Nutrition and HPV
The human papillomavirus, or HPV, can lead to cervical cancer. According to the American Social Health Association, it is the most common sexually transmitted disease, with 75 percent or more of sexually active Americans contracting it at some point. The immune system typically eradicates or controls the virus, but if the immune system is not functioning well, the virus can persist over several years, increasing the risk of cervical cancer, says the American Social Health Association. Good nutrition boosts the immune system, making it more likely to suppress or control HPV, reducing the risk of developing cervical cancer.
Warning
Prior to taking any supplements or altering a diet, it is best to ask the health care team what foods or supplements may be unsafe, to avoid any interactions with chemotherapy drugs or other medications.
References
- University of Iowa Healthcare: Cervical cancer prevention
- Springerlink: "Cancer Causes and Control": Nutrition and cervical neoplasia
- American Cancer Society: Cervical Cancer: General treatment information
- American Cancer Society: Benefits of good nutrition
- National Cancer Institute: Eating Hints
- National Cancer Institute: Cervical Cancer
