Cervical cancer develops in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus, and is mostly caused by a long-lasting HPV infection. HPV is a widespread virus transmitted through sexual contact. However, only a small percentage of those assigned female at birth who have HPV will develop an ongoing infection that increases their risk for cervical cancer.
In its early stages, cervical cancer rarely shows symptoms, which makes it difficult to diagnose. If symptoms do appear, they might include vaginal bleeding and pain during intercourse. When the cancer advances to other areas of the body, additional symptoms such as leg swelling and discomfort during urination and bowel movements can occur.
To prevent cervical cancer, getting the HPV vaccine and undergoing regular screenings are crucial. Catching cervical cancer early enhances the chances of successful treatment and typically provides more treatment options.
Cervical cancer can arise in different areas of the cervix and is classified by the type of cell where it begins. The main types include squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and mixed carcinoma (adenosquamous carcinoma). Approximately 90% of cervical cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, starting in the outer part of the cervix. Adenocarcinomas, which are less common, originate in the mucus-producing glandular cells of the inner cervix, while mixed carcinoma includes characteristics of both types. Small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma is an extremely rare and aggressive cancer often diagnosed at a late stage because it typically spreads to other parts of the body.
Symptoms of cervical cancer tend to vary based on its progression. Unfortunately, early-stage cervical cancer is often asymptomatic. As it spreads, symptoms can include those associated with early-stage cancer as well as additional signs.
The primary cause of cervical cancer is a persistent infection with HPV, which has over 40 types, with 13 known to trigger cervical cancer. Most people with HPV are unaware of it, as their immune system usually eliminates the virus within a couple of years. However, if the immune system cannot clear the virus, it may eventually lead to cellular changes that develop into cancer. Experts still don’t fully understand why only some people with HPV develop cervical cancer, but factors like immune system strength, behaviors, and other health conditions might contribute.
Anyone with a cervix who is sexually active may be at risk for cervical cancer, especially with multiple sexual partners or partners with high-risk profiles. Other risk factors include smoking, immune system suppression, long-term use of oral contraceptives, a family history of the disease, and STIs.
Healthcare providers may use various diagnostic tests to detect cervical cancer. If diagnosed, a specialist will stage the cancer to identify its severity and determine the most effective treatment approach. While treatments aim to cure cervical cancer, this might not be possible with more advanced stages. In such cases, treatments focus on slowing the progression and alleviating symptoms.
Treatment plans are personalized based on cancer’s stage, patients’ health, age, and preferences. Surgeries in early stages might involve removing cancerous tissue through methods like laser ablation, cryosurgery, or conization. Advanced stages may require removing affected areas such as the cervix or uterus.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells and can be used alone or alongside surgery and chemotherapy. Chemotherapy involves drugs administered via veins or orally to target cancer cells. Targeted drug therapy and immunotherapy use medication to specifically attack cancer cells or enhance the immune system to fight the cancer.
Prevention of cervical cancer includes vaccination against HPV, ideally before exposure to the virus. Regular screening tests, like the Pap smear, can detect abnormal cells early, preventing them from developing into cancer. The Pap test is generally recommended every three years, or every five years if combined with HPV testing. Practicing safe sex, using methods like condoms, also aids in prevention.
Early detection of cervical cancer significantly improves outcomes, with a survival rate of 92% over five years when diagnosed early. However, the survival rate drops to 17% if detected after spreading. Newer treatments are continually enhancing the prognosis for late-stage cervical cancer, showing promise for future survival statistics.
