Cervical cancer develops in a woman's cervix (the entrance to the uterus from the vagina). Globally, cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women, with around 660 000 new cases in 2022.[1] Although cervical cancer is a preventable type of cancer, 350,000 women have died from it.[2]

Almost all cervical cancer cases (99%) are linked to infection with high-risk human papillomaviruses (HPV), an extremely common virus transmitted through sexual contact.2

Although most infections with HPV resolve spontaneously and cause no symptoms, persistent infection can cause cervical cancer in women.2

Recognizing its risk factors and taking preventive actions can significantly lower its prevalence and impact.[3]

Risk Factors

1. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection
   The primary cause of cervical cancer is persistent infection with high-risk types of HPV, a common sexually transmitted infection. Over 95% of cervical cancer cases are linked to HPV, particularly types 16 and 18.1,3 [4]
2. Smoking
   Women who smoke are about twice as likely to develop cervical cancer as non-smokers. Tobacco by-products can damage the DNA of cervix cells, enhancing cancer risk.[5]
3. Weakened Immune System
   Conditions that weaken the immune system, such as HIV infection or immunosuppressive treatments, increase the risk of persistent HPV infections and subsequent cervical cancer development.5
4. Early Sexual Activity and Multiple Sexual Partners
   Initiating sexual activity at an early age and having multiple sexual partners increase the likelihood of HPV infection, thereby heightening cervical cancer risk.5
5. Prolonged Use of Oral Contraceptives
   Studies have shown a slight increase in cervical cancer risk among women who use oral contraceptives for five or more years.3 However, the risk diminishes after discontinuation.5
6. Lack of Regular Screening
   Cervical cancer mainly occurs because of a long-term infection with high-risk types of HPV. Not all HPV infections cause cancer, but some can change cervical cells and lead to cancer over time. Regular pap smears and HPV tests help catch these changes early.[6]

Cervical cancer remains a significant health concern for women worldwide. 1  However, this type of cancer can be largely prevented through the prevention of high-risk HPV infection, regular screening tests, and awareness campaigns. Being aware of risk factors and quitting smoking, strengthening the immune system, getting the HPV vaccine, and getting regular Pap smears or HPV tests are effective in reducing the incidence and mortality rates of cervical cancer.2,3,5

References:

1.    https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cervical-cancer

2.    https://www.who.int/health-topics/cervical-cancer#tab=tab_1

3.    https://tektiklabilgielinde.saglik.gov.tr/rahim-agzi-serviks-kanseri.html

4.    https://www.who.int/teams/immunization-vaccines-and-biologicals/diseases/human-papillomavirus-vaccines-(HPV)

5.    https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/cervical-cancer/causes-risks-prevention/risk-factors.html

6.    https://www.health.com/cervical-cancer-causes-8705632