Cervical cancer remains one of the most preventable yet life-threatening diseases among women worldwide. Early detection through screening can save countless lives, yet awareness and regular testing continue to lag behind. On my recent visit to Kirit Nursing Home in Mumbai, I met Dr. Maitreyee Parulekar, a distinguished Gynaecological Oncosurgeon who has dedicated her medical career to women’s health, particularly in the field of Cervical Cancer Screening in Mumbai.
Her calm authority, coupled with compassionate patient care, makes her one of the most respected names in this crucial domain of preventive oncology.
Dr. Maitreyee Parulekar’s journey into gynaecological oncology is marked by excellence and empathy. She holds an MBBS and MD in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, followed by super-specialized training in Oncogynaecology. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Parulekar has worked extensively in both surgical oncology and cancer prevention, focusing on early detection methods for cervical, ovarian, and uterine cancers.
At Kirit Nursing Home, her clinic is a blend of modern technology and personalized care. The setup includes advanced colposcopy units, Pap smear facilities, HPV testing systems, and cytopathology labs — ensuring comprehensive diagnostic accuracy under one roof.
During our conversation, she emphasized,
“Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers we can truly prevent with regular screening. Awareness and timely testing make all the difference.”
Cervical cancer develops in the cells of the cervix — the lower part of the uterus connecting to the vagina. It is primarily caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
Screening tests such as the Pap smear and HPV DNA test detect precancerous changes before they progress into cancer. According to Dr. Parulekar, every woman aged 21–65 should undergo periodic screening, especially those with a family history or multiple risk factors.
She explained,
“A five-minute test can change a lifetime. It’s not just about detecting disease — it’s about protecting future health and fertility.”
Within India, several renowned specialists have advanced the field of gynaecologic oncology. Dr. Neerja Bhatla and Dr. Hemant Tongaonkar are pioneers in women’s cancer prevention and surgical oncology.
Globally, doctors such as Dr. Douglas Levine and Dr. Sharad Ghamande are internationally recognized for their contributions to cervical cancer research and screening programs.
Together, experts across the world share one goal — to make cervical cancer a preventable disease through routine, accessible screening.