Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that forms in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus.

The majority of cervical cancer cases are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), but there are several other factors that can also increase a woman’s risk of developing the disease. In this article, we will discuss the other causes of cervical cancer besides HPV.

Smoking

Smoking is a major cause of cervical cancer. Women who smoke are twice as likely to develop cervical cancer as women who do not smoke.

Cigarette smoke contains harmful chemicals that damage DNA and weaken the immune system, making it more difficult for the body to fight off HPV infections.

Chlamydia Infection

Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause cervical inflammation and damage the cells of the cervix, increasing the risk of cervical cancer.

Women with chlamydia are four times more likely to develop cervical cancer compared to women without the infection. It is recommended that sexually active women get tested for chlamydia regularly.

Family History of Cervical Cancer

Women who have a family history of cervical cancer are at a higher risk of developing the disease. This is because some women may inherit a genetic susceptibility to the disease.

It is important for women with a family history of cervical cancer to get regular Pap and HPV tests to catch the disease early if it develops.

Long-term Use of Birth Control

Women who have used birth control pills for five years or longer are at an increased risk of developing cervical cancer. The hormones in birth control pills can change the cells of the cervix, making them more susceptible to HPV infections.

However, the risk of cervical cancer returns to normal within a few years of stopping birth control.

Weak Immune System

Women with weak immune systems, such as those with HIV or AIDS, are at increased risk for cervical cancer. This is because the immune system helps to fight off HPV infections that can lead to cancer.

Diet

Studies have shown that a diet low in fruits and vegetables may increase the risk of cervical cancer. Fruits and vegetables are high in antioxidants and other nutrients that can help protect the body against cancer.

Women should strive to eat a healthy, balanced diet to reduce their risk of cervical cancer.

Age

Cervical cancer is more common in women over the age of 30. This is because the cells of the cervix are more likely to be exposed to HPV infections over time.

It is important for women over the age of 30 to get regular Pap and HPV tests to catch the disease early if it develops.

Exposure to DES

Diethylstilbestrol (DES) is a synthetic estrogen that was given to some women in the 1940s to the 1960s to prevent miscarriage.

Women who were exposed to DES before birth (in the womb) have an increased risk of developing abnormal cells in the cervix, which can lead to cervical cancer. It is important for women who know that their mothers took DES to get regular Pap and HPV tests to catch the disease early if it develops.

Conclusion

While HPV is the main cause of cervical cancer, there are several other factors that can increase a woman’s risk of developing the disease.

Women should be aware of these additional risk factors and take steps to reduce their risk, such as getting regular Pap and HPV tests, quitting smoking, and eating a healthy diet.