What is the main cause of cervical cancer?

The main cause of cervical cancer is a long-term infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV) [1]. This virus is very common and is transmitted from person to person through close skin-to-skin contact, usually during sexual contact. There are many types of HPV, and the types that can cause cancer are called "high-risk HPV" [1].

Most people infected with HPV show no symptoms, and the immune system often clears the infection within a year or two [1]. However, if the immune system cannot control the infection, it may persist for many years. Over time, HPV can cause normal cervical cells to change into abnormal cells. If these abnormal cells are not treated, they may continue to change until they become cancerous cells [1].

What is cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the cervix, the lower, narrow part of the uterus that opens into the vagina [1]. This cancer usually develops slowly. Before cervical cells become cancerous, they start to appear abnormal, and these cells are known as "precancerous cells" [1]. If these cells are not destroyed or removed, they may turn into cancerous cells that grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body [1].

How does HPV cause cancer?

HPV is the cause of almost all cases of cervical cancer [2]. The virus is primarily transmitted through sexual contact [2]. Although many people are exposed to the virus, only a few develop cancer [3]. When infection with high-risk HPV types persists for a long time, it can cause changes in cervical cells. These changes may gradually develop from precancerous conditions known as dysplasia, which can be detected and treated very successfully before they turn into cancer [2].

Risk factors that increase the likelihood of infection

In addition to high-risk HPV infection, other factors can increase the likelihood of developing cervical cancer, especially in people over 30 years old [1]. These factors include:

• Weakened immune system: Whether due to diseases such as HIV or taking immunosuppressive drugs [1].
• Smoking: Smoking tobacco or exposure to secondhand smoke increases the risk [1].
• Use of birth control pills: Long-term use of oral contraceptives [1].
• Multiple births: Having many children [1].
• Obesity: Being overweight can increase the risks [1].
• DES exposure: Prenatal exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES), which was used to prevent miscarriage between 1940 and 1971 [1].

Prevention and early detection

Cervical cancer is largely preventable through the HPV vaccine, which provides maximum protection if received before exposure to the virus, and is recommended for children between 9 and 12 years old [1]. Regular cervical cancer screening tests, such as a Pap smear and HPV test, also help detect abnormal cells or high-risk infections early, making it easier to treat them before they develop into cancer [1]. You can learn more about prevention and early detection in our comprehensive article on Cervical Cancer: Prevention, Early Detection, and Treatment Options (Arabic).

If you do not undergo regular Pap smear screenings, or if you notice any abnormal vaginal bleeding or unusual discharge, it is important to consult a doctor [2]. These symptoms may not necessarily mean cancer, but they require a medical evaluation to determine the cause.

Medical references

• Cervical Cancer
• Cervical cancer
• Cervical Cancer Basics