"If I had acted sooner, things might have been different. I'm sharing my story so you don't have to face the same regrets," Hari Won said in a video for the nationwide "For a Vietnam Without the Burden of HPV" campaign.
Hari Won, a cervical cancer survivor, received her diagnosis at the peak of her career. During her first gynecological exam, which she considered a routine checkup, she even invited her mother along. Neither of them was prepared for the doctor's suspicion of cancer.
The news shocked both mother and daughter. Hari recalled questioning, "I live a healthy life, why would I get cancer?" Feelings of disappointment and injustice overwhelmed her. Her confusion deepened when she learned that HPV, the virus often responsible for cervical cancer, can be transmitted even within a monogamous relationship, and that carriers can be asymptomatic.
After two surgeries and numerous follow-up appointments, Hari gradually recovered both physically and mentally. She describes it as a confusing time, filled with anxieties about the illness and societal judgment. "I worried about being judged for how I lived, even though I knew I lived responsibly. Yet, the shame still lingered," she confided.
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Hari Won shares her story at the "For a Vietnam Without the Burden of HPV" campaign. Photo: Quynh Tran |
Hari Won shares her story at the "For a Vietnam Without the Burden of HPV" campaign. Photo: Quynh Tran
Once she regained her composure, Hari Won decided to break her silence. She began openly sharing her experience, the emotional toll of cancer on a young person, and the challenges of treatment. She emphasizes that cervical cancer isn't a consequence of "living wrongly" and is treatable with early detection.
"I want people to understand that there's no shame in getting a gynecological exam. Just like with the flu, if something feels off, get it checked. Don't wait until it's serious," Hari stressed.
The experience transformed Hari's lifestyle. She now gets checkups every 6 months and is vigilant about her health, even with minor symptoms like inflammation. She also advocates for partners to get comprehensive health screenings before committing to a serious relationship. "For a more secure marriage, proactive health checks are essential. It's a sign of respect and responsibility for each other," she stated.
Post-treatment, Hari continues regular checkups and takes preventive measures to minimize the risk of HPV recurrence or new infections. She also encourages her siblings and husband to take similar precautions. For Hari, HPV isn't just a women's issue. While many believe only women need protection, men can carry and transmit the virus. "Prevention protects both yourself and your loved ones," Hari explained.
As an advocate for the national HPV prevention campaign, Hari hopes her message reaches a wide audience, especially young people. "You have control over your health. Whether you're at the beginning or any stage of your journey, it's never too early or too late to protect your well-being. Start today," she urged.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), HPV is the leading cause of cervical cancer and linked to other cancers like anal and vulvar cancer. Globocan 2022 reports over 2,500 cervical cancer deaths annually in Vietnam, a disease preventable and treatable with early detection through regular screenings.
Drawing from her personal experience, Hari aims to shift societal perceptions of HPV. She believes that through proactive measures, everyone can contribute to a Vietnam free from the burden of HPV.
The Dan - Thi Thao
HPV is the human papillomavirus. HPV infection is extremely common worldwide. Most infections are asymptomatic and clear on their own, but persistent infection can cause diseases, pre-cancerous conditions, and cancer in both men and women. Individual action is crucial for raising awareness and promoting prevention. "For a Vietnam Without the Burden of HPV". Consult with a healthcare professional and learn more about HPV at hpv.vn.
