What is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer starts in the cells lining the cervix, the gateway between the uterus and vagina. It develops gradually, usually beginning with precancerous changes caused by long-term infection with high-risk types of the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is so common that nearly all sexually active individuals will contract it at some point, yet persistent infection is what raises the cancer risk [CDC, 2024].
Key Facts
– Over 600,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year [WHO, 2023].
– It causes more than 340,000 deaths annually, mostly in low- and middle-income countries [WHO, 2023].
– About 90% of cervical cancer cases are linked to persistent HPV types 16 and 18 [ACS, 2023].
– The disease is most common in women aged 30–49 [WHO, 2023].
What Causes It?
Cervical cancer is primarily caused by long-term infection with certain high-risk strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a group of more than 100 related viruses, and while most infections are cleared naturally by the immune system, some types especially HPV-16 and HPV-18 can persist and lead to cellular changes in the cervix. These changes may develop over years, starting as mild abnormalities and progressing to precancerous lesions and eventually cancer if undetected.
The body’s immune system usually eliminates HPV within one to two years, but when it doesn’t, chronic infection can disrupt normal cell function. The virus produces proteins (notably E6 and E7) that interfere with tumor-suppressor genes in human cells. These genetic disruptions allow abnormal cells to grow unchecked, eventually forming cancerous tumors.
Risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing cervical cancer include:
– Early onset of sexual activity, which increases lifetime exposure to HPV.
– Multiple sexual partners or partners who have had many partners.
– Smoking introduces harmful chemicals that damage cervical cells.
– A weakened immune system, such as from HIV infection or immunosuppressive therapy.
– Long-term use of oral contraceptives (over 5 years).
– A family history of cervical cancer, which may indicate a genetic predisposition.
The Power of Prevention
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when proper measures are taken. Here’s how:
• HPV Vaccination: The HPV vaccine can prevent over 90% of cervical cancers. It is recommended for preteens but can be administered up to age 26, and in some cases, beyond [CDC, 2023].
• Regular Screening: Pap tests and HPV tests can detect precancerous changes early, when they are most treatable [ACS, 2023].
• Safe Sex Practices: Condoms and limiting the number of partners reduce the chance of HPV transmission.
• No Smoking: Smoking weakens immune defences in the cervix and increases cancer risk.
• Timely Checkups: Especially important for women with HIV or other immune challenges.
What’s Holding Us Back?
Despite being preventable, cervical cancer continues to take lives, largely due to inequities in healthcare. Women in underserved communities face barriers like a lack of awareness, limited access to vaccines or screenings, and cultural stigmas around reproductive health [WHO, 2023].
What Can You Do?
Raise your voice. Share the facts. Encourage vaccination and screening. Support organisations that bring cervical cancer resources to the people who need them most. Together, we can ensure that no woman dies from a disease that shouldn’t exist anymore.
References
[CDC, 2023] Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. HPV and Cancer. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/hpv/index.htm
[WHO, 2023] World Health Organisation. Cervical Cancer Elimination Initiative. https://www.who.int/initiatives/cervical-cancer-elimination-initiative
[ACS, 2023] American Cancer Society. Cervical Cancer Overview. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cervical-cancer.html
