8 Causes of Cervical Cancer
The cervix is the lower part of the uterus, which connects to the vagina. Cancer occurring in this part of the body is called cervical cancer. Cancer can affect deeper tissues in the cervix and later spread to parts like the vagina, lungs, liver, rectum, and bladder. A woman can get diagnosed with cervical cancer due to many reasons. Some of the most common causes of cervical cancer are as follows.
1. Human papillomaviruses (HPV)
One of the most common causes of cervical cancer is the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus (HPV). This virus is also the reason for genital warts. There are above 100 kinds of HPV, among which at least 13 can result in cervical cancer. The two most prevalent types of cancer-causing HPV are HPV-18 and HPV-16.
This virus has two proteins, which are known as E6 and E7. The proteins negatively affect tumor suppressor genes like p53 and Rb. This can allow the cells lining the walls of your cervix to enlarge more than required. It can also cause changes in additional genes, which can lead to cancer in some cases. HPV combined with other risk factors like an HIV infection or smoking increases the possibility of a person contracting cervical cancer.
2. Weak immune system
Your immune system is responsible for eliminating a majority of HPV infections. It does so within the first two years of you getting infected with the virus. Hence, patients suffering from HIV or AIDS are at a higher risk of suffering from cervical cancer. People who have undergone a transplant are also at risk, as they take immunosuppressive medications.
3. Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
Some sexually transmitted diseases that act as risk factors for cervical cancer include gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis.
4. Birth control pills
Long-term use of some common contraceptive pills, especially if used for more than five years, can increase a woman’s risk of getting diagnosed with cervical cancer.
5. Early sexual activeness
Those who have participated in sexual activities within the year of starting their period or before the age of 16 are at a higher risk of developing cervical cancer.
6. Smoking
This increases a person’s risk of suffering from different types of cancer, such as cervical and lung cancer.
7. Multiple sexual partners
The types of HPV that cause cancer are usually transmitted during sexual contact with a person who is infected with HPV. Hence, women who have multiple sexual partners are at a higher risk of contracting HPV, which can further lead to cervical cancer.
8. Socio-economic status
It is observed that people coming from areas of low income have a higher risk of suffering from cervical cancer.
Being aware of these causes of cervical cancer is important so that you can take precautions and lessen the risk.