Causes
Research suggests that some sexually transmitted viruses (eg, human papilloma virus ) can cause the nuclei in cervical cells to begin the changes that can lead to cancer.
Risk Factors
Scientists believe several risk factors act together. These include:
- Infection of the cervix with the human papillomavirus (HPV)—the primary risk factor for cervical cancer
- History of cervical dysplasia (a precancerous condition)
- Being a woman whose mother took the drug diethylstilbestrol (DES) during pregnancy
- HIV/AIDS
- Age: over 25 years old
- Multiple sexual partners
- Sexual activity prior to age 18
- First pregnancy prior to age 20
- History of not having Pap tests
- Smoking
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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