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Cervical cancer occurs in the cells of the cervix in the lowermost part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Various strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection, play a role in causing cervical cancer. When exposed to HPV, the body's immune system typically prevents the virus from harming. However, in a small percentage of people, the virus survives for years causing some cervical cells to become cancerous cells. The risk of developing cervical cancer can be reduced by having screening tests and receiving a vaccine that protects against HPV infection.
Causes of cervical cancer
Cervical cancer begins when healthy cells in the cervix develop changes in their DNA. The accumulating abnormal cells form a tumor. Cancer cells invade nearby tissues and can brea...