What cervical cells are involved in cancer?

Squamous cells

The cervix is the lower, narrow end of the uterus that opens into the vagina. The cervix is lined with two types of cells: squamous cells and columnar cells. Squamous cells are flat, scale-like cells that cover the outer surface of the cervix. Columnar cells are tall, column-shaped cells that line the inside of the cervix.

Most cervical cancers start in the squamous cells. These cancers are called squamous cell carcinomas. Adenocarcinomas are cancers that start in the columnar cells. These cancers are less common than squamous cell carcinomas.

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide. It is estimated that there will be over 570,000 new cases of cervical cancer and over 311,000 deaths from cervical cancer worldwide in 2018.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the main risk factor for cervical cancer. HPV is a sexually transmitted infection. There are over 100 different types of HPV. Some types of HPV are more likely to cause cervical cancer than others.

Other risk factors for cervical cancer include:

* Having multiple sexual partners

* Having sex at a young age

* Having a weakened immune system

* Smoking

* Using oral contraceptives for a long time

Cervical cancer is often curable if it is found and treated early. Screening tests, such as the Pap smear and the HPV test, can help to find cervical cancer early.