Sandra Kubicka speaks openly about the illnesses she struggles with. In 2019, the model was diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome, also known as PCOS. Because there is a history of cancer in her family, she regularly undergoes gynaecological examinations. Now she shared devastating news with those watching he Instagram - Sandra developed a precancerous condition of the cervix.

In her recent Instagram Story, Sandra Kubicka wrote: "I am 28 years old and yesterday I cried asking myself ‘why all this is happening to me, even though I am so young?’ My doctor called me yesterday, my cytology results had turned out bad... I have a Pap smear done every four months because I am in a high risk group."

Further on, Sandra shared her diagnosis: "Thanks to the fact that I have a Pap smear done often, we managed to notice the problem quite soon. I have a precancerous condition of the cervix. Today I start the treatment. Get examined often, even if you are young and nothing hurts. Cancerous conditions detected at the right time can be cured".

It is estimated that cervical cancer is the second most common female cancer. Factors contributing to the development of cancer cells include smoking, HPV infection, vaginal infection with HSV-2, numerous pregnancies and childbirths - especially at a young age, a history of radiotherapy to the pelvic area or frequent changes of sexual partners. So what can be done to minimise the risk of infection?

The most important medicine in the fight against cervical cancer is the HPV vaccine. If given to a child before they start having sexual intercourses, it can make a real difference in protecting them against cancer. It is important to vaccinate both girls and boys as they both can spread HPV.

The test that helps detect even the earliest stages of cervical cancer is called a Pap smear (or Pap test). The latest research says that the first Pap test should be done between the ages of 20 and 25. The next screening should take place after a maximum of two years, but ideally a Pap smear should be repeated every year.

Aga Szuścik-Zięba, a gynaecological educator, talks about the significance of prophylactic gynaecological examinations in Poland. In her series "It doesn't happen" (Polish: "To się nie zdarza"), Aga presents her history of cancer. On Instagram, she also conducts monthly breast self-examinations thanks to which changes in the chest area can be detected faster. The educator often says that even the most painful Pap test is more pleasant than chemotherapy, radiotherapy or surgery.