Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It develops when abnormal cells in the cervix grow uncontrollably, leading to the formation of tumors. If left untreated, cervical cancer can spread to other parts of the body, including the bladder, rectum, and lungs.
Common but preventable – Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers in women but can be prevented through regular screenings and vaccination.
Caused by HPV – The majority of cervical cancer cases are linked to persistent infection with high-risk strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
Slow development – It takes years or even decades for cervical cancer to develop from precancerous changes.
Highly treatable in early stages – Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and survival.
The exact cause of cervical cancer is uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the cervix, but several risk factors contribute to its development.
HPV Infection – High-risk HPV types (16 and 18) are responsible for nearly 70% of cervical cancer cases.
Weakened Immune System – Individuals with compromised immunity (e.g., HIV/AIDS patients) are more susceptible.
Smoking – Tobacco use doubles the risk by exposing cervical cells to carcinogens.
Multiple Sexual Partners – Increases the likelihood of HPV exposure.
Early Sexual Activity – Engaging in sexual activity at a young age raises HPV risk.
Long-term Use of Birth Control Pills – Extended use (5+ years) may slightly increase the risk.
Lack of Screening – Women who do not undergo regular Pap smears or HPV tests may miss early warning signs.
Family History – A genetic predisposition to cervical cancer may increase risk.
Early-stage cervical cancer often does not cause symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, symptoms may appear.
Abnormal vaginal bleeding – Especially after intercourse, between periods, or post-menopause.
Pelvic pain – Unexplained, persistent discomfort in the lower abdomen.
Pain during intercourse – May indicate advanced cervical disease.
Unusual vaginal discharge – Watery, bloody, or foul-smelling discharge.
Frequent urination or difficulty urinating – If cancer spreads to the bladder.
Leg swelling – Caused by lymph node blockage in advanced cases.
Cervical cancer is classified based on the type of cells affected.
Accounts for about 80-90% of cervical cancer cases.
Develops in the squamous cells lining the cervix.
Often linked to persistent HPV infection.
Makes up 10-20% of cases.
Arises from mucus-producing glandular cells in the cervix.
More difficult to detect with Pap tests.
A rare combination of squamous and glandular cell cancer.
Tends to be more aggressive than SCC or adenocarcinoma.
An aggressive but rare form of cervical cancer.
Requires intensive treatment, including chemotherapy and radiation.
Cervical cancer is diagnosed through a combination of screening tests and diagnostic procedures.
Pap Smear (Pap Test) – Detects abnormal cervical cells before they become cancerous.
HPV Test – Identifies high-risk HPV strains linked to cervical cancer.
Colposcopy – A detailed examination of the cervix using a magnifying device.
Biopsy – A small tissue sample is taken for microscopic analysis.
Cone Biopsy – A larger sample is removed for further examination.
MRI or CT Scan – Determines cancer spread to nearby tissues.
PET Scan – Detects distant metastasis.
Treatment depends on the stage of cancer, overall health, and patient preferences.
Cone Biopsy – Removes precancerous or early-stage cancer cells.
Hysterectomy – Removal of the uterus and cervix.
Radical Hysterectomy – Involves removing the uterus, part of the vagina, and lymph nodes.
Uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells.
Often combined with chemotherapy for advanced cases.
Can be external (directed at the cervix) or internal (brachytherapy).
Uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth.
Given intravenously in cycles.
Used in advanced cases or when cancer has spread beyond the cervix.
Focuses on specific cancer cell proteins to slow growth.
Bevacizumab (Avastin) is an approved targeted drug for cervical cancer.
Enhances the immune system’s ability to fight cancer.
Pembrolizumab is an immunotherapy drug used for advanced cervical cancer.
Survival rates depend on early detection, treatment response, and overall health.
Localized Cancer (Stage I) – 5-year survival rate of 90%.
Regional Spread (Stage II-III) – Survival drops to around 60%.
Distant Metastasis (Stage IV) – 5-year survival rate below 20%.
Stage at Diagnosis – Early detection improves outcomes.
HPV Type – Some strains lead to more aggressive cancer.
Treatment Response – Individual response to chemotherapy or radiation varies.
Overall Health – Comorbidities impact recovery.
Cancer Recurrence – Affects long-term survival.
While not all cases are preventable, several steps can reduce risk.
HPV Vaccination – Protects against high-risk HPV strains.
Regular Pap Smears – Detects precancerous changes early.
Safe Sexual Practices – Using condoms reduces HPV transmission.
Smoking Cessation – Lowers cervical cancer risk.
Healthy Diet – Antioxidant-rich foods support immune function.
Early Treatment of HPV or Cervical Infections – Prevents progression to cancer.
Managing cervical cancer requires lifestyle adjustments and support.
Follow-up Care – Regular check-ups to monitor for recurrence.
Healthy Diet – Nutrient-rich foods support recovery.
Physical Activity – Light exercise improves energy levels.
Emotional Support – Therapy and support groups help patients cope.
Pain Management – Medications and complementary therapies ease discomfort.