Facts About Cervical Cancer

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By Norma Chew
eHow Contributing Writer

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The cervix is the lower portion of the uterus that opens into the vagina.

Cancer of the cervix is the second most common type of cancer that affects women. It develops gradually over many years, starting with the pre-cancerous phase called dysplasia. Early detection of dysplasia can prevent cervical cancer. Having regular Pap tests is the key to early detection of dysplasia. Knowing the risks factors and the preventive methods of cervical cancer can save your life.

Fact 1

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) estimates that for 2009:

New cases of cervical cancer...........11,270
Deaths due to cervical cancer...............4070

The cause of cervical cancer is infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually ransmitted disease.

Fact 2

In June 2006, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of a new vaccine to prevent infection from four types human papillomavirus (HPV). Two HPV types (HPV 16 and HPV 18) targeted by the vaccine are responsible for about 70% of cases of cervical cancer worldwide. The other two HPV types (HPV 6 and HPV 11) cause about 90% of cases of genital warts.

The vaccine, Gardacil, is made by Merck and Co, Inc. in collaboration with the NCI.

Fact 3

In an article titled "Facts About Cervical Cancer" published in February 2009, Jennifer M. Granholm, governor of Michigan, and Janet Olazewski, director of Michigan Department of Community Health, state: "No one should die from cervical cancer."

Experts believe all cervical cancer deaths could be prevented by a combination of safe sex practices, routine Pap tests, and appropriate follow-up of annual screening results.

Risk Factors

Knowing the risk factors will help you avoid getting cervical cancer. Risk factors include:

Infection with certain HPV viruses (HPV 16, HPV 18, HPV 31, HPV 33, and HPV 45)
Exposure to multiple sexual partners
More than five complete pregnancies
Sexual encounters before age 18
Smoking

Prevention

Preventive measures include:

Get the HPV vaccine.
Avoid smoking.
Avoid having multiple sexual partners.
Maintain a healthy diet that includes fresh fruits and vegetables.
Include a routine Pap test during your yearly gynecology visit.