The exact cause of cervical cancer is unknown. The Mayo Clinic says, research shows human papillomavirus (HPV) plays a role. Evidence of HPV is found in nearly all cervical cancers. However, HPV is very common and most women with HPV never develop cervical cancer. This means, other risk factors such as genetic makeup, environment or lifestyle choices, also determine whether someone develops cervical cancer.
Cancer.org says cervical cancers cells don’t suddenly change into cancer. Normal cervical cells gradually develop pre-cancerous changes that turn into cancer. These changes can be detected by the Pap test and is 100 percent treatable. That’s why it’s imperative for women to get regular Pap smears.
Squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma are the two main types of cervical cancers. The most common is squamous cell carcinoma. Very rare cancers can also occur in other cells in the cervix.
https://www.empowher.com/cervical-cancer/content/female-reproductive-system-disease-cervical-cancer