Cervical cancer or cancer of the cervix is one of the most common types of cancer in women worldwide. This type of cancer arises in the cells of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus or the womb that connects to the vaginal canal. In order for us to better understand cervical cancer, it is necessary to know that the cervix has two main parts: the ectocervix, which contains squamous cells, and the endocervix, which contains mucus-producing glandular cells. According to the National Cancer Institute, most cervical cancers originate in squamous cells.

HPV infection & its relationship with cervical cancer

The main risk factor for cervical cancer is HPV, being the cause of 90% of cases. This virus is sexually transmitted and is the cause of genital warts. It is estimated that a large part, or the majority of the sexually active population, has been exposed to or has contracted an HPV infection at some point in their lives. Although there are multiple types of HPV, those with the highest risk for cervical cancer are HPV16 and HPV18. Generally, our immune system controls most HPV infections and they tend to go away on their own. However, if the infection is prolonged, it can cause changes in the cells of the cervix and lead to cancer.

Other risk factors

In addition to HPV, there are other factors that could increase the risk of developing cervical cancer.

• Sexual intercourse: Being sexually active is another important factor, especially if it started at a young age. It is proven that the risk of HPV infection increases in people under 18 years of age, with multiple partners, or who do not use barrier protection (condoms).
• Fragile or weakened immune system: Having a weak immune system affects our body’s ability to fight viral and bacterial infections, as well as increasing the chance that the infection will last longer.
• Smoking or secondhand smoke: Being exposed to secondhand smoke or actively smoking can increase the risk of multiple types of cancer, including cervical cancer. The more cigarettes you smoke each day, and the longer you smoke, the greater your risk.
• Reproductive factors: although the reason for this finding is not clear, it has been shown that women who use oral contraceptives and who have had many pregnancies or deliveries have a higher risk of suffering from this cancer.
• Exposure to certain drugs: Diethylstilbestrol (DES) is a drug that has been associated with an increased risk of developing a type of cervical cancer known as clear cell adenocarcinoma.

Preventive measures

Some of the best news we have received in recent years regarding cervical cancer is that it can be prevented and, if detected early, it is curable if we act immediately. 

Here are some ways to prevent cervical cancer:

• Vaccination against HPV: the HPV Vaccine is indicated for women and men from 9 to 45 years of age. It has been shown to be effective in preventing cervical cancer caused by seven different HPV types, including most of those that cause genital warts. Talk to your doctor about this vaccine and whether it is right for you and your family.
• Screening tests: a screening test detects disease early. In the case of cervical cancer, two tests are recommended (Pap smear or PAP test: The PAP test examines the cells of the cervix to identify changes or an HPV test: This test checks for high-risk HPV infection.)

• Sexual protection: The use of barrier methods, such as female and male condoms, can reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases. It is important to mention that these methods do not fully protect you, since exposure to HPV and other diseases can occur in areas that are not covered by the barrier method.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, having your routine checkups annually, and following preventive measures will allow you to enjoy a better quality of life and better health. Don’t forget that early detection is the key to successful treatment and better recovery. When this type of cancer is not detected early, it can have serious effects on your reproductive health and life. Talk to your doctor about possible treatments and how to cope with a diagnosis of cervical cancer. You can learn more about cervical cancer by clicking here.