How is cervical cancer formed?

Cervical cancer begins with changes in the cells that line the cervix, which is the lower, narrow end of the uterus. The cervix connects the uterus to the vagina.

Most cases of cervical cancer are caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a common virus that can be passed from one person to another through skin-to-skin contact. There are many different types of HPV, and some types are more likely to cause cancer than others.

When HPV infects the cells of the cervix, it can cause changes in the DNA of the cells. These changes can lead to the development of abnormal cells that may eventually turn into cancer. The process from HPV infection to cervical cancer can take many years.

Not all women who are infected with HPV will develop cervical cancer. There are a number of factors that can increase a woman's risk of developing cervical cancer, including:

* Having a weakened immune system

* Being exposed to high levels of estrogen

* Having a family history of cervical cancer

* Smoking

* Having multiple sexual partners

* Being under the age of 25 when first infected with HPV

Regular screening for cervical cancer can help to detect and treat cervical cancer in its early stages, when it is most curable. Screening tests include the Pap test and the HPV test.