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Conditions InDepth: Cervical Cancer

Authors:
  • Amy Scholten, MPH
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Conditions InDepth: Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is cancer that starts in the cervix. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus (womb). It connects the uterus with the vagina.

Cancer is the out-of-control growth of cells. These cells can grow together and form a tumor. They can invade and damage nearby tissues. Cancer cells can also spread to other parts of the body. The most common sites for spread are the bones, liver, and lungs.

Most cervical cancer is linked to human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a sexually transmitted infection. A lasting HPV infection can cause changes in cervical cells. These changes can lead to cancer. HPV is very common but does not always lead to cervical cancer. Cervical cancer can also happen without HPV.

Cancer Cell Growth.

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The Cervix.

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Types of Cervical Cancer

The 2 main types of cervical cancer are:

  • Squamous cell (most common)—begins in the outer part of the cervix
  • Adenocarcinoma—begins in the inner lining of the cervix

What are the risk factors for cervical cancer?

What are the symptoms of cervical cancer?

How is cervical cancer diagnosed?

What are the treatments for cervical cancer?

Are there screening tests for cervical cancer?

How can I reduce my risk of cervical cancer?

What questions should I ask my doctor?

What is it like to live with cervical cancer?

Where can I get more information about cervical cancer?

References

  • Cervical cancer. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/cervical-cancer. Accessed April 19, 2021.
  • Cervical cancer. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gynecology-and-obstetrics/gynecologic-tumors/cervical-cancer. Accessed April 19, 2021.
  • Hu Z, Ma D. The precision prevention and therapy of HPV-related cervical cancer: new concepts and clinical implications. Cancer Med. 2018 Oct;7(10):5217-5236.
  • General information about cervical cancer. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/cervical/patient/cervical-treatment-pdq. Accessed April 19, 2021.
  • What is cervical cancer? American Cancer Society website. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cervical-cancer/about/what-is-cervical-cancer.html. Accessed April 19, 2021.
  • What is HPV? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/hpv/parents/whatishpv.html. Accessed April 19, 2021.
Last Updated:
2021-03-01

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.