Among the most common types of cancer among women, cervical cancer begins in the cells of the cervix, which connects the lower part of the uterus to the vagina. If detected early and treated properly, cervical cancer can be prevented and cured.
What causes cervical cancer?
The main cause of cervical cancer is a persistent infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a common virus that can be transmitted through sexual contact. There are more than 100 types of HPV, but only some of them can cause cervical cancer. HPV 16 and HPV 18 are among the high-risk HPV types.
Some factors that increase the risk of getting cervical cancer are:
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Having multiple sexual partners or starting sexual activity at a young age.
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Having a weak immune system due to conditions such as HIV/AIDS or organ transplant.
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Smoking or using tobacco products.
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Using oral contraceptives for a long time.
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Having a family history of cervical cancer.
What are the symptoms of cervical cancer?
The symptoms of cervical cancer may not appear until the later stages of the disease. Some common symptoms include:
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Abnormal vaginal bleeding, such as after sex, between periods, or after menopause.
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Unusual vaginal discharge that may be watery, bloody, or foul-smelling.
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Pelvic pain or pressure that may be constant or intermittent.
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Pain during sex or urination.
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Weight loss, fatigue, or loss of appetite.
In some cases, cervical cancer may cause more serious symptoms, such as:
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Swelling in the legs or abdomen due to fluid buildup or lymph node enlargement.
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Bone pain or fractures due to bone metastasis.
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Nerve damage or paralysis due to spinal cord compression.
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Kidney failure due to ureter obstruction.
How is cervical cancer diagnosed?
In order to diagnose cervical cancer, your doctor will examine you and ask about your symptoms and medical history. Your doctor may also order some tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine the stage and extent of the disease. These tests may include:
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A Pap test to collect and examine cells from the cervix for signs of abnormality or infection.
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A HPV test to detect the presence and type of HPV in the cervical cells.
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A colposcopy to look at the cervix with a magnifying device and take biopsies (small tissue samples) for further analysis.
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A cone biopsy to remove a cone-shaped piece of tissue from the cervix for diagnosis and treatment.
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An imaging test to visualize the organs and tissues in the pelvis and abdomen. This may include an ultrasound scan (US), a computed tomography scan (CT), a magnetic resonance imaging scan (MRI), or a positron emission tomography scan (PET).
How is cervical cancer treated?
Treatment for cervical cancer varies depending on the stage and type of the disease, as well as your age, health, and preferences.
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The removal of part or all of the cervix, the uterus, the ovaries, the fallopian tubes, lymph nodes, or other affected organs. Several types of surgery are available, ranging from minimally invasive procedures like loop electrosurgical excision (LEEP) or cryotherapy to more extensive procedures such as radical hysterectomy or pelvic exenteration.
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The use of high-energy rays or particles to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. Radiation therapy can be administered externally (external beam radiation therapy) or internally (brachytherapy).
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In advanced stages of cervical cancer, chemotherapy can be given alone or in conjunction with radiation therapy (chemoradiation).
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A targeted therapy that blocks specific molecules or pathways involved in the growth and survival of cancer cells. An injection or pill that targets a specific protein such as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) or vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a form of targeted therapy.
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An immune therapy involves injecting cytokines or checkpoint inhibitors into your body to stimulate your immune system's ability to fight cancer cells.
How can you prevent cervical cancer?
By reducing your exposure to HPV and other risk factors, you can prevent cervical cancer. These include:
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Gardasil and Cervarix are two vaccines that can protect against high-risk HPV types that cause cervical cancer. The vaccines are recommended for girls and boys aged 11 to 12, but can be given up to age 26.
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Screening tests for cervical cancer include Pap tests and HPV tests, which can detect abnormal cells or infections before they become cancerous. The tests are recommended for women ages 21 to 65, depending on their risk of cervical cancer and family history.
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Using condoms or dental dams during sex (or abstaining from sex altogether) can reduce your risk of getting or transmitting HPV.
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By damaging your cervical cells' DNA and weakening your immune system, smoking can increase your risk of cervical cancer.
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Eating foods high in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and fiber can help prevent inflammation and oxidative stress from damaging your cells. Maintaining a healthy weight and eating a healthy diet can help prevent inflammation and oxidative stress. Your hormone levels and immune system can also be altered by being overweight or obese, increasing your chances of getting cervical cancer.
If you notice any signs or symptoms of cervical cancer, contact your doctor immediately. You can avoid complications and survive cervical cancer with proper prevention and treatment.
