Cervical cancer is typified by uncontrolled maturation and proliferation of the cancer cells present in the cervix (the organ that connects the vagina with the uterus). As per the National Cancer Institute, cervical cancer is one of the most common cancer form affecting women, accounting for approximately 4,000 deaths each year. According to a Mayo Clinic study, various strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) have been found to play a significant role in the development of this cancer form. However, efficient and useful treatment methods have come up that have significantly diminished the death rates of cervical cancer.
Human Papillomavirus Infection
Human papillomavirus is a sexually transmitted disease. Certain strains of the virus, such as type 16 and type 18, damage the cells that line the cervix, converting them into aggressive and malignant cancer cells. The Mayo Clinic says women having a greater number of sexual partners or women having sex before the age of 18, are at an elevated danger of getting infected by the virus and developing cervical cancer.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
The Mayo Clinic reports that women suffering from sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as gonorrhea, HIV/AIDS, chlamydia and syphilis, among others, are at an increased danger of developing cervical cancer. The above-mentioned diseases often damage the cells lining the reproductive organs, making them susceptible to the proliferation and growth of cancer cells.
Other Risk Factors
According to the Mayo Clinic, having a vulnerable and weak immune system, family history of the cancer, smoking and ethnic background are some of the common risk factors for cervical cancer. Black women have been found to be less vulnerable and susceptible to develop the cancer form compared to their white counterparts, although the reason is unknown.
Common Symptoms
Cervical cancer is often a slow-maturing cancer form, seldom producing signs and symptoms in the initial stages. However, some of the signs and symptoms that develop with the proliferation and maturation of the cancer cells include bleeding through the vagina during intercourse as well as periods, foul and pungent discharge from the vagina and discomfort and pain near the pelvis.
Pap Test
A pap test is one of the most common diagnostic method used to detect and diagnose cervical cancer. In this method, a few cells lining the cervix are brushed off by the doctor and are then send to the labs for further examination for any kind of cancerous growths.
Tags: cancer cells, cancer form, Mayo Clinic, , According Mayo