What is Cervical Cancer?
An Overview of Cervical Cancer – Causes, Treatment and Prognosis.
Feb 24, 2009
Reality TV star Jade Goody's recent death from cervical cancer was shocking. It reinforced the importance of regular smear tests and good gynecological health. A simple test can save your life and it is tragic that Jade knew this yet was too scared to have an operation to remove abnormal cells on her cervix - despite the fact that it would have saved her life.
What is Cervical Cancer?
The cervix is located at the top of the vagina and is described as the ‘neck’ of the womb. If cells in the area begin to develop abnormally and turn cancerous it can be fatal unless treated early on. According to the NHS there are two types of cervical cancer: Squamous cell carcinoma – the most common type which grows from cells on the surface of the cervix, and Adenocarcinoma, which develops in the glandular cells that line the cervical canal. Cancer takes a long time to develop and prior to this the cells will change – any abnormalities will normally be picked up during cervical screening.
Causes of Cervical Cancer
We aren’t sure why a cell becomes cancerous – it happens when an abnormal cell goes haywire and multiplies in the body. Experts have identified various risk factors: -
- In most cases it is caused by infection of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). This is transmitted through genital contact – usually via unprotected intercourse. HPV is common and has many different ‘strains’ but five ‘types’ have been linked to cervical cancer.
- Having sex from an early age and having lots of sexual partners. Research shows that women who have a baby before the age of 17 are more at risk compared to women who give birth after the age of 25.
- Long-term use of the contraceptive pill can slightly increase the risk of cervical cancer. However, regular smear tests counteract this.
- Smoking – chemicals in cigarettes impact on cells and can cause changes. Smokers are more susceptible to cervical cancer.
Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
In the early stages there may be no symptoms, which is why it’s important to have regular smear tests. If cancer starts to develop you may experience some of the following symptoms: -
- Unusual vaginal bleeding between periods, after sex or post-menopausal.
- Irregular vaginal discharge.
- Painful sex.
- Unexplained pain or illness.
It is important to check any symptoms out with your doctor to rule out any other health issues.
NHS Cervical Screening Test
Smear tests take a sample of cells from your cervix to check for any abnormalities. They are a preventative measure and available free on the NHS from the age of 25. See the NHS Cervical Screening Programme for further information.
Treating Cervical Cancer
Methods of treatment depend on the ‘staging’ and type of cancer, how far it has spread as well as other factors such as your wellbeing and age. If it is at an early stage and curbed to the cervix, surgery is an option and has a high success rate. If it has spread to other organs it is harder to eradicate and can be kept in check using radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
Further Information
In the UK girls aged 12-13 years are offered a HPV vaccine called Cervarix to help protect against cervical cancer. For more information about how this works, see the NHS’ Immunisation website.
Health Talk Online is a charity that has video clips and interviews with patients. They would like to hear from women who have had abnormal smear test results.
This article is for general information purposes only. Consult your health practitioner if you want specific guidance on a health issue.
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