Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is a form of cancer that affects the cervix, the muscular entrance to the uterus where it meets the top of the vagina. Cancer of the cervix is not one of the most common cancers in women in the US but it is not uncommon. Currently, in women, cervical cancer is about the 8th most common form of cancer in the US.

Most cases of this form of cancer are probably related to infection by one of several high-risk types of the human papillomavirus (HPV) which is sexually transmitted. For this reason, vaccination for the most causative viruses has been developed and may help to reduce the risk for cancern of the cervix. HPV has many subtypes and only some of them significantly increase the risk for cancer. This is the same virus, but usually different strains, which is responsible for the formation of warts.

Because of the relatively common nature of the disease and the fact that the cervix can easily be examined (it is easily accessible through the vagina during a female pelvic examination with a vaginal speculum), screening for this form of cancer is generally routine in females. The pap smear test samples cells from the cervix so that they can be examined for cancer or precancerous changes so that early or preventative treatment can be initiated. Both pap smear screening and HPV vaccination are believed to help reduce the risk for development of cancer of the cervix and to improve outcomes because of early diagnosis and treatment.

Additional Topics:

Symptoms: Symptoms of cancer of the cervix can vary depending on size, location and the stage of development of the tumor.

What Is A Pap Smear: A pap smear or pap test is one of the important screening tests for cervical cancer. Learn more about it here..

HPV and Cancer Vaccine: Vaccines have come on the market relatively recently which may help prevent cancer of the cervix if given to young women. Learn more about them and how they work here.