Singer and actress Hari Won recently shared her experience with cervical cancer at age 27 as part of the nationwide "For a Vietnam Without the Burden of HPV" campaign. The diagnosis initially shocked her. She underwent two surgeries to remove cancerous tissue from her cervix, impacting her ability to have children and making her dream of motherhood challenging.

"When I see cute babies, I adore them, but I also feel a little sad. Now, I've let go and don't think about it much anymore," the wife of MC Tran Thanh shared.

Hari Won candidly shared her cervical cancer treatment journey. Photo: Quynh Tran

Hari Won candidly shared her cervical cancer treatment journey. Photo: Quynh Tran

Hari Won's journey has resonated with many young people, especially women. Thuy Dung, 35, from Hanoi, recently underwent surgery for cervical cancer after losing her mother to the same disease. "Hari Won's story reminded me of my own treatment. It was truly terrifying and haunting. Young women should prioritize their health before it's too late. My heart goes out to all women battling this terrible disease," Dung commented on Hari Won's post.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), almost 100% of cervical cancer cases are linked to high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) types. HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection. While most HPV infections are asymptomatic and clear up on their own, persistent infection is the leading cause of cervical cancer and other precancerous and cancerous conditions in both men and women.

Thu Trang, 29, from Hanoi, is also undergoing cervical cancer treatment. While she hasn't needed surgery like Hari Won, she undergoes regular checkups to monitor and address any potential risks. Her doctor explained that cervical cancer is primarily caused by high-risk HPV types (also known as oncogenic types). While HPV is commonly transmitted sexually, having HPV or related conditions doesn't imply promiscuity.

"I struggled to accept my diagnosis. I wondered how this could happen to me, considering my healthy lifestyle. But now I realize I'm fortunate to have caught it early, giving me more time for treatment," the office worker said.

Trang noted that cervical cancer screening wasn't always widespread in Vietnam, leading to late diagnoses with severe health consequences. With advancements in medicine, regular screening is crucial for early detection and timely treatment of precancerous and cancerous lesions.

As part of the "For a Vietnam Without the Burden of HPV" campaign, Hari Won's story has inspired millions of women. She emphasizes the importance of proactive health management for young people. Several effective preventive measures are available, including: maintaining a healthy lifestyle, exercising regularly, practicing safe sex, getting the HPV vaccine at medical facilities, and undergoing regular cervical cancer screenings.

Yen Chi

HPV is the human papillomavirus. HPV infection is extremely common worldwide. Most infections are asymptomatic and clear up on their own, but persistent infection can cause various diseases, precancerous conditions, and cancers in both men and women. Individual action is essential to raise awareness in the community "For a Vietnam Without the Burden of HPV." Consult a healthcare professional and learn more about HPV at hpv.vn.