by Laura Heffner
A simple vinegar test has been found to slash cervical cancer deaths in India especially where poverty is so prevalent. India has nearly one-third of the world's cases of cervical cancer. The article stated that the cervix is swabbed with diluted vinegar which makes abnormal cells briefly change color. The test is done it is touted as an inexpensive way for women to be tested especially in impoverish communities. Though in a country where women are subservient to men and must ask permission for the most simple decisions, it is difficult to entice women to participate in a simple screening procedure.
Early detection for most types of cancers is the key to a better chance of survival but many of these women have never even seen a doctor even for childbirth. Advocates want to bring this vinegar test to other developing countries as well. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) is one of the major sponsors of the studies regarding the test. It is estimated that it could prevent 22,000 deaths in India alone with the 72,600 worldwide prevented each year. That is a significant number of lives saved.
In a few short weeks local people can be trained how to perform the test and no laboratory is required to be able to process the test meaning this allows for trained personnel to be able to travel to other villages and cities to also be able to test more women. It is amazing that something as simple as vinegar can predict cancer but it makes me wonder what else could be found to help detect cancer especially in situations as these.
With a family history of multiple cancers, I am screened regularly for colon and breast cancer as well as cervical. I couldn't imagine what it would be like to not have the health care advances that the United States possesses or not even know anything about cancer itself. Or that I would have to ask my husband to even participate in these screenings. One more reason to be thankful for our country and our times.
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