Most women who develop cervical cancer are between 20 and 50 years old. It used to be one of the main causes of death from cancer in the United States, but the widespread use of the Pap test has helped doctors find cervix cancer in the early stages, when treatment is most effective. As more women get the HPV vaccine, the number of patients with cervical cancer in the United States should decrease even further.
The cervix is in the bottom part of the uterus (or womb, where a baby grows). It joins the uterus to the vagina (birth canal).
Before cervical cancer appears, the cells of the cervix go through precancerous changes, known as dysplasia. Usually this is a slow process that develops over many years. A Pap test given every three-to-five years looks for these changes. If precancerous cells are found, they often can be removed.
Most cases of cervical cancer are caused by infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), which usually is passed from person to person by sexual contact. The average person’s lifetime risk of contracting HPV is about 80%.
In most people, the immune system clears the virus before it is detected or causes cells to change. However, in a small percentage of people the virus will remain and cause cell changes that may develop into cancer.
Cervical cancer is classified based on the type of cell where it develops.
The most common types of cervical cancer are:
Squamous cell carcinoma (cancer): This is the most common type of cervical cancer and is found in 80% to 90% of cases. It develops in the lining of the cervix.
Adenocarcinoma: This type of cervical cancer develops in gland cells that produce cervical mucus. About 10% to 20% of cervical cancers are adenocarcinomas.
In rare instances, other types of cancer, such as neuroendocrine (small and large cell cervical cancer), melanoma, sarcoma and lymphoma, are found in the cervix.
Anything that increases a woman’s chances of getting HPV or decreases her ability to get Pap smears is a risk factor for cervical cancer.
HPV is spread by sexual contact and is the cause of almost all cases of cervical cancer, as well as many vaginal and vulvar cancers. HPV may cause the cells in the cervix to change. If abnormal cells are not found and treated, they may become cancer.
As many as 80% of men and women who have had sex have HPV. Usually the body’s immune system eliminates the virus, and most people never know they have it. While most women with HPV will not get cervical cancer, they should be aware of the risk and have regular Pap tests.
Smoking and a weakened immune system (caused by a condition such as HIV/AIDS) can also greatly increase the risk of developing cervical cancer.
Age: The risk of cervical cancer increases with age. It is found most often in women over the age of 40. However, younger women often have precancerous lesions that require treatment to prevent cancer.
Risk Factors of Cervical Cancer Include :
Smoking: Cigarette smoke contains chemicals that damage the body’s cells. It increases the risk of precancerous changes in the cervix, especially in women with HPV.
Sexual behavior: Certain types of sexual activity may increase the risk of getting HPV infection. These include: 1) Multiple sexual partners, 2) high-risk male partners, 3) first intercourse at an early age and 4) not using condoms during sex.
Diethylstilbestrol (DES) exposure before birth: This drug was used between 1940 and 1971 to help women not have miscarriages. Women whose mothers took DES during pregnancy have a high risk of vaginal and cervical cancers.
Weakened immune system: Having an organ transplant or taking steroids raises the risk of developing cervical cancer.
Not everyone with risk factors gets cervical cancer. However, if a woman does have risk factors it’s a good idea to discuss them with a health care provider.
Some people have an elevated risk of developing cervical cancer.
Behavioral and lifestyle changes can help prevent cervical cancer.
Why choose us ?
At ACH, experts work together to carefully plan your cervical cancer treatment. They customize your plan of action to deliver the most advanced cervical cancer treatment with the least impact on your body.
Your personal group of experts, which includes highly specialized medical, surgical, radiology and gynecological oncologists, is supported by a thoroughly trained staff. They communicate and collaborate at every step to increase your chances for successful cervical cancer treatment.
We also offer treatment for pre-cancerous changes of the cervix and perform cervical biopsies to investigate abnormal Pap tests.
Surgery often is an integral part of cervical cancer treatment, and the surgeon’s skill can make a crucial difference in the success of these delicate operations. ACH’s surgeons are experienced in surgery for cervical cancer, giving them a higher level of expertise.