5 Things You Need to Know About Causes Of Cervical Cancer

1. Out of Control Cells

The actual causes of cervical cancer are unknown; however, doctors and researchers do know that a mutation occurs, causing normal cells to become abnormal. Abnormal cells, also known as cancer cells, proliferate rapidly. Unlike normal cells, there is no regulation to prevent overgrowth; consequently, tumors form, often invading neighboring tissues. Most cervical cancer arises from squamous cells, while a smaller number of cervical cancers arise from glandular cells. In very rare cases, cervical cancer stems from abnormalities in both squamous cells and glandular cells.

2. Risky Sex

Research suggests that the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection, raises a persons chances for developing cancer of the cervix. Therefore, a woman who has multiple sexual partners is at greater risk for developing cervical cancer, because she's increasing her odds of contracting HPV. Women with numerous sexual partners also put themselves at greater risk for developing other sexually transmitted diseases (STD), such as herpes and Chlamydia. The combination of HPV and another sexually transmitted disease makes the risk of developing cervical cancer even greater. Finally, girls who become sexually active prior to the age of 18 are at greater risk for developing cervical cancer, because their immature cells are more susceptible to the HPV virus.

3. Suppressed Immune System

Women with weakened immune systems are at greater risk for developing cervical cancer. Diseases, such as HIV, depress immune system functioning, making it more susceptible to changes caused by the HPV virus. Organ transplants may also reduce the efficacy of the immune system, making a person more susceptible to cancer of the cervix.

4. Poor Women

Poverty itself doesn't cause cervical cancer; however, poorer women are at greater risk of developing cervical cancer. Sadly, many poor women and even some middle class women don't have access to good healthcare. Consequently, they're missing annual pap smears, which frequently identify foreboding precancerous cells. In addition, poorer women often don't have the funds for a healthy diet, consisting of fruits and vegetables. Women who eat fruits and vegetables have a decreased risk of developing cervical cancer.

5. A Smoking Gun

Cervical cancer that originates with the squamous cells is more common in women who smoke cigarettes. An HPV infection exacerbates this risk. While the exact reason for this isn't known, it's thought that cancer causing chemicals may invade the cervical mucus of women who smoke. These chemicals may ultimately damage Langerhans cells, which fight off disease. If the Langerhans cells are damaged, they can't fight off HPV, putting the woman at greater risk for cervical cancer. Doctors recommend that you quit smoking to reduce your risk of developing cervical cancer. This is especially true if you have HPV.