Cervical Cancer in Kuwait: What You Need to Know

Cervical cancer remains one of the most preventable yet deadly forms of cancer affecting women globally. In Kuwait, the disease poses a growing concern, particularly for women aged 15 to 44. 

According to the 2023 Fact Sheet from the ICO/IARC HPV Information Centre, approximately 53 new cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed annually in Kuwait, and 28 women die from the disease each year.

While the numbers may seem modest, the fact that cervical cancer ranks third among cancers in Kuwaiti women aged 15–44 emphasizes the importance of awareness, prevention, and early detection.

Learn more about our diagnostic imaging services in Kuwait that support cancer screening and follow-up care.

What Is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer originates in the cells lining the cervix — the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Most cervical cancers are caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of the human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly types 16 and 18.

In Kuwait, 72.4% of invasive cervical cancer cases are attributed to HPV types 16 or 18. 

To understand how medical imaging helps in early detection of different cancers, you can read our article on types of cancer and how imaging enables early detection.

 

Cervical Cancer Symptoms

Cervical cancer symptoms often go unnoticed in the early stages. However, as the disease progresses, some signs may include:

Common Symptoms

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding (between periods, after intercourse, or post-menopause)

• Unusual vaginal discharge (watery, bloody, or foul-smelling)

• Pelvic pain

• Pain during intercourse

• Fatigue or unexplained weight loss

Important: 

These symptoms can be caused by conditions other than cancer, but should not be ignored. If you’re experiencing persistent pelvic or abdominal symptoms, an ultrasound scan may help assess underlying causes

Causes and Risk Factors

The primary cause of cervical cancer is infection with high-risk HPV. Other risk factors include:

Risk Factors

1. Early sexual activity or having multiple sexual partners

2. Smoking (associated with a 2x higher risk)

3. Weakened immune system (e.g., HIV infection)

4. Long-term use of oral contraceptives (5+ years)

5. Having given birth to many children

6. Family history of cervical cancer

Cervical Cancer in Kuwait:

Key Statistics

Key facts from the ICO/IARC HPV Information Centre

• 53 new cases and 28 deaths annually

• 3.20 crude incidence rate per 100,000 women

• 3rd most common cancer in Kuwaiti women aged 15–44

• HPV vaccination not yet introduced in the national program

• Cervical screening coverage only 15–18% among women aged 25–65

Diagnosis and Imaging

Although cervical cancer is primarily detected through Pap tests and HPV testing, imaging plays a critical role in:

• Staging

• Evaluating disease spread

Imaging at Images Diagnostic Center (Kuwait) we provide advanced imaging solutions that aid in the accurate assessment of cervical cancer:

CT Scan:

MRI: 

Note: 

For women who need a more comfortable experience, our open MRI service provides clear results without the discomfort of traditional closed MRI machines.

 

Prevention and Screening

Early detection saves lives. Preventive measures include:

• HPV vaccination (when available)

• Regular Pap smears and HPV tests for women aged 25–65

• Safe sexual practices and limiting exposure to HPV

• Quitting smoking to reduce co-factor risks

If you’re monitoring your overall health, consider regular imaging as part of your preventive care — such as mammograms for breast health or bone density scans for women’s wellness.
You can also explore more posts under our Tests Category to understand the role of various imaging exams.

Book Your Cervical Imaging Appointment in Images Diagnostic Center

If you have symptoms or need imaging as part of your treatment plan, contact Images Diagnostic Center in Kuwait. Our expert radiology team provides high-resolution CT and MRI scans to support your physician in diagnosing and managing cervical cancer.

➡️ Book your imaging appointment now

contact Images Diagnostic Center in Kuwait over the Phone., WhatsApp Or the registration form.

For more information about medical imaging in cancer detection, visit our blog on ultrasound scans.