Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cervix, narrow passage located between the lower uterus and the vagina.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide, with an estimated 570,000 new cases and 311,000 deaths reported in 2018 alone.

Like other cancer types, cervical cancer develops when the cells in the cervix start to grow abnormally and rapidly. Over time, these abnormal cells can become cancerous and spread to other parts of the body, making it harder to treat effectively.

Causes of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is usually caused by a viral infection known as the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a sexually transmitted infection that affects the skin and mucous membranes.

There are over 100 types of HPV, but only a few of them can cause cervical cancer. HPV 16 and 18 are responsible for about 70% of all cervical cancer cases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

HPV is spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the virus. It can also be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact with someone who has HPV. However, not everyone who has HPV will develop cervical cancer.

Other factors may increase the risk of developing cervical cancer.

Risk Factors for Cervical Cancer

Several risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing cervical cancer, including:.

1. Age

Women over the age of 30 are at a higher risk of developing cervical cancer than younger women. This is because it can take many years for HPV to cause changes in the cells of the cervix that lead to cancer.

2. Smoking

Smoking cigarettes increases the risk of developing cervical cancer. Tobacco smoke contains more than 70 chemicals that can cause cancer, and these chemicals can damage the DNA in the cells of the cervix, making it more likely that cancer will develop.

3. Weak Immune System

Women with weak immune systems are more likely to develop cervical cancer. This is because the body’s immune system is less able to fight off infections, including HPV.

Conditions that weaken the immune system include HIV/AIDS, organ transplants, and some autoimmune disorders.

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4. Birth Control Pills

Studies have found that women who take birth control pills for a long time, especially more than five years, may have an increased risk of developing cervical cancer.

This is because the hormones in birth control pills can affect the cells of the cervix and make it easier for HPV to cause cancer.

5. Sexual History

Women who have had many sexual partners or have had sex with someone who has had many sexual partners are at a higher risk of developing cervical cancer. This is because they are more likely to come into contact with HPV.

6. Diet

A diet low in fruits and vegetables may increase the risk of developing cervical cancer. Fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants, which are thought to help protect cells from damage that can lead to cancer.

7. Family History

Women with a family history of cervical cancer are at a higher risk of developing the disease. This is because some women may inherit a genetic mutation that makes them more susceptible to developing cervical cancer.

8. Economic Status

Women from low-income backgrounds or who have limited access to healthcare may be at a higher risk of developing cervical cancer.

This is because they may not have access to preventative measures, such as the HPV vaccine or regular cervical cancer screenings.

9. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection

As mentioned earlier, most cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV infection. Women who have HPV are at a higher risk of developing cervical cancer, especially if it goes untreated for a long time.

The best way to prevent HPV is to get vaccinated and to practice safe sex by using condoms and limiting the number of sexual partners.

Conclusion

Cervical cancer is a serious disease that affects millions of women around the world. While HPV is the main cause of cervical cancer, several other risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing the disease.

By understanding these risk factors and taking preventative measures, such as getting vaccinated against HPV and having regular cervical cancer screenings, women can reduce their risk of developing cervical cancer.