In a surprising turn of events, actor-model Poonam Pandey, whose manager had announced her death on Friday due to cervical cancer, left netizens in shock as she took to Instagram to share a video confirming her alive status. In the video, she addressed the false reports, stating, “I’m alive. I didn’t die of cervical cancer.”
Expressing the need to shed light on a crucial issue, Poonam wrote in the Instagram post, “I feel compelled to share something significant with you all – I am here, alive. Cervical Cancer didn’t claim me, but tragically, it has claimed the lives of thousands of women who stemmed from a lack of knowledge on how to tackle this disease. Unlike some other cancers, Cervical Cancer is entirely preventable.”
Highlighting the importance of awareness and prevention, she continued, “The key lies in the HPV vaccine and early detection tests. We have the means to ensure no one loses their life to this disease. Let’s empower one another with critical awareness and ensure every woman is informed about the steps to take. Visit the link in the bio to delve deeper into what can be done. Together, let’s strive to put an end to the devastating impact of the disease and bring #DeathToCervicalCancer.”
However, not everyone received her awareness efforts positively. Criticism surfaced on Instagram, with users calling it a "WORST PUBLICITY STUNT EVER!" and labeling it as questionable marketing. Despite the backlash, Poonam addressed the controversy in another video, apologizing to those she may have hurt. She explained her extreme approach, stating, “I am sorry to those whom I’ve hurt. My intention to shock everyone into the conversation that we are not talking enough about, which is cervical cancer. Yes, I faked my demise, extreme, I know, but suddenly all of us are talking about cervical cancer, aren’t we?”
The initial announcement of Poonam's death by her manager had led to skepticism, and her subsequent revelation has sparked a conversation about the importance of discussing cervical cancer. The conflicting emotions and reactions from the public highlight the complexity of the situation.
Poonam Pandey, recognized for her daring photos and videos, marked her film debut with "Nasha" in 2013 and later appeared on Kangana Ranaut's 'Lock Upp' in 2022. Notably, in 2011, she gained attention by pledging to pose nude if India won the ICC Cricket World Cup. However, she didn't fulfill the promise, citing public disapproval and lack of permission from BCCI.
Her most recent social media post, from three days ago, portrays her enjoying a party in Goa.
Cervical cancer is a prevalent form of cancer affecting the cervix, the lower part of the uterus connecting to the vagina. Globally, it ranks as the fourth most common cancer among women. In 2020, around 604,000 diagnoses and 342,000 deaths were reported.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the primary cause, responsible for 99% of cases. This sexually transmitted infection often exhibits no symptoms. While the immune system typically clears it, persistent infections can lead to abnormal cell growth and, ultimately, cervical cancer. The transition from abnormal cells to cancerous ones usually takes 15-20 years, but in individuals with weakened immune systems, this process can accelerate to 5-10 years.
Women at higher risk include young mothers, hormonal contraceptive users, smokers, and those with other sexually transmitted infections. Early detection significantly improves the treatability of cervical cancer.