Cervical cancer is cancer that initiates in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus (womb) that opens at the top of the vagina. Cervical cancers start in the cells on the surface of the cervix. There are two types of cells on the cervix's surface: squamous and columnar. The majority of cervical cancers are from squamous cells. It is the third most common type of cancer in women, worldwide. Cervical cancer generally grows very gradually. It initiates as a precancerous form called dysplasia. This precancerous form can be identified by a Pap smear and is totaly treatable. It can take years for precancerous changes to develop into cervical cancer. Most women who are diagnosed with cervical cancer today have not had habitual Pap smears or they have not followed up on abnormal Pap smear results. A woman's sexual habits and patterns can augment her danger for cervical cancer. Unsafe sexual practices consist of having sex at an early age, having multiple sexual partners, and having multiple partners or partners who take part in high-risk sexual activities. More or less all cervical cancers are caused by HPV (human papilloma virus). HPV is a common virus that is spread through sexual intercourse. There are many different types of HPV. Some strains lead to cervical cancer. Some of the symptoms of cervical cancer are: • Abnormal vaginal bleeding between periods, after intercourse, or after menopause • Continuous vaginal discharge, which may be pale, watery, pink, brown, bloody, or foul-smelling • Periods become heavier and last longer than usual Cervical cancer may stretch to the bladder, intestines, lungs, and liver. Patients with cervical cancer do not generally have troubles till the cancer has advanced and has spread. Signs of advanced cervical cancer may consist of: • Back pain • Bone pain or fractures • Fatigue • Leaking of urine or feces from the vagina • Leg pain • Loss of appetite • Pelvic pain • Single swollen leg • Weight loss
Cervical cancer or cancer of the cervix has become quite common in woman and has been observed more among the young women. It is mainly caused by HPV (human papilloma virus). It is most commonly seen among people who take part in unsafe sexual practices or gets involved in sexual practices at a very tender age or those who have multiple sexual partners, as well as among the ones who take part in high-risk sexual activities.
Many women are today suffering from cervical cancer and seems to be growing especially in women living in Urban areas. Some of the causes of cervical cancer include Smoking, consumption of alcohol, certain genetic defects, long term mental stress, weak immune system, giving birth at young age, intake of contraceptive pills for a long duration, multiple pregnancies, sexually transmitted diseases as well as socio-economic status.
