Cervical Cancer

Causes

• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection: Most cases of cervical cancer are caused by
  HPV infection, particularly high-risk strains such as HPV-16 and HPV-18.
• Smoking: Smoking cigarettes increases the risk of cervical cancer.
• Weakened Immune System: Conditions or medications that weaken the immune system
  increase the risk.
• Sexual Activity: Early sexual activity, multiple sexual partners, or having a partner with
  multiple sexual partners increase the risk.
• Family History: Having a mother or sister with cervical cancer increases the risk.
• Long-Term Use of Birth Control Pills: Long-term use (five years or more) may slightly
  increase the risk.

Symptoms

• Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding: Bleeding between periods, after sexual intercourse, or
  after menopause.
• Pelvic Pain: Pain during sexual intercourse or pelvic pain not related to menstruation.
• Vaginal Discharge: Unusual vaginal discharge that may be watery, bloody, or have a
  foul odor.
• Painful Urination: Discomfort or pain during urination.
• Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss.

Diagnosis

• Pap Test (Pap Smear): Screening test to detect abnormal cervical cells.
• HPV Test: Screening for high-risk HPV strains.
• Colposcopy: Examination of the cervix using a special magnifying instrument.
• Biopsy: Removing a sample of cervical tissue for examination under a microscope to
  confirm cancer.

Treatment

• Surgery:
  • Conization (Cone Biopsy): Removal of a cone-shaped piece of tissue from the
    cervix.
  • Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus and cervix.
• Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams to kill cancer cells, often used in combination
  with chemotherapy.
• Chemotherapy: Drugs to kill cancer cells, used alone or in combination with other
  treatments.
• Targeted Therapy: Drugs that target specific abnormalities in cancer cells.
• Immunotherapy: Boosting the immune system to fight cancer.

Prevention

• HPV Vaccination: Vaccination against HPV infection, recommended for both boys and
  girls starting at age 11 or 12.
• Regular Pap Tests: Screening for cervical cancer starting at age 21, or earlier if sexually
  active.
• Safe Sex Practices: Using condoms and limiting sexual partners can reduce the risk of
  HPV infection.
• Smoking Cessation: Quitting smoking reduces the risk of cervical cancer and other
  health problems.