Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer originates in the lower part of the uterus, the cervix, which is visible during a vaginal examination. In 2008, it was estimated that 11,070 women would be diagnosed and 3,870 women would die from cervical cancer in the U.S.
Risk Factors
The human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that is acquired through sexual activity, is the main
cause of cervical cancer for women. Another major risk factor is smoking, which doubles the risk of
developing this cancer. Additional factors that may increase the chance of developing cervical cancer
include:
- Infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
- Chlamydia infection
- Women on chronic immunosuppression medications
- Use of birth control pills
- Numerous pregnancies
- Being the daughter of a women who used DES (diethylstilbestrol) – a hormone used between 1940 and 1971 for women in danger of miscarriages
Prevention
Cervical cancer is preventable. Early detection through pelvic examinations and routine, annual Pap
tests are currently the most effective and reliable cervical cancer screening tests available. Women
should also avoid infection with HPV by delaying the onset of sex, using condoms and limiting their
number of sexual partners. The HPV vaccine, currently recommended for females between the ages of
nine and 26, can prevent HPV infection, which can prevent some types of cervical cancer. The vaccine is
most effective prior to the first sexual experience, before women are exposed to the HPV virus.
Symptoms
Symptoms of cervical cancer may include unusual vaginal discharge and abnormal vaginal bleeding or
pain, which may start and stop between regular menstrual periods and occur after sexual intercourse.
Diagnosis
If abnormal cells are found through a Pap test or HPV testing, then a colposcopy (a magnified view of the
cervix) is performed which will identify areas of the cervix to biopsy. The biopsy results will determine if
cervical cancer or its precursor is present. If an abnormal area or lesion is identified grossly on the cervix
at routine examination, a biopsy is required.
Treatment
Treatment options involve specialized surgery for early stage disease and the combination of
chemotherapy and radiation therapy for more advanced disease. Common surgery options may include a
cone biopsy to remove a portion of the cervix if microscopic cancer is found or a radical hysterectomy with
removal of regional lymph nodes if more extensive cancer is found.