Brief Overview of Cervical Cancer and HPV
Cervical Cancer and HPV are a type of cancer that develops in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It is caused by the abnormal growth of cells in the cervix, which can eventually invade surrounding tissue and spread to other parts of the body.
This type of cancer is most often caused by a persistent infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). It is most commonly diagnosed in women in their mid-to-late 40s and is rare in women under the age of 30. Cervical cancer can be prevented with regular screenings and HPV vaccination.
Cause of Cervical Cancer
The main cause of cervical cancer is infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a group of viruses that are extremely common and can be spread through sexual contact, as well as other types of skin-to-skin contact.
When a person is infected with HPV, the virus can cause changes in the cells of the cervix. In most cases, the body’s immune system can clear the infection and the cells return to normal. In some cases, the infection persists and the cells continue to change, eventually becoming cancerous.
Certain high-risk HPV types, such as HPV 16 and HPV 18, are known to be the most likely causes of cervical cancer. It is important to note that not all HPV infections lead to cervical cancer, and most HPV infections go away on their own without causing any harm.
Other factors that increase the risk of cervical cancer include: -Smoking
- Long-term use of oral contraceptives
- Having multiple sexual partners
- Having a weakened immune system
- Exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES) before birth
It is important to remember that cervical cancer can often be prevented with regular screenings and HPV vaccination.
Definition of HPV (human papillomavirus)
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of viruses that are extremely common and are known to cause a variety of conditions, including cervical cancer. There are more than 150 different types of HPV, and they can be classified into two main categories: low-risk and high-risk. Low-risk HPV types are typically responsible for causing warts on the hands, feet, and genitals, while high-risk types are associated with the development of cervical cancer and other types of cancer. High-risk HPV types can cause abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix, which can lead to cervical cancer if not detected and treated early. HPV is primarily spread through sexual contact, but it can also be spread through other types of skin-to-skin contact.
Difference Between Cervical Cancer and HPV
Symptoms of Cervical Cancer:
In the early stages, cervical cancer may not cause any symptoms. This is why regular screenings, such as a Pap test or an HPV test, are so important for detecting cervical cancer in its early stages. However, as cancer progresses, symptoms may develop.
Symptoms of cervical cancer can include:
- Vaginal bleeding or spotting between periods or after sexual intercourse
- Menstrual periods that are longer or heavier than usual
- Vaginal discharge that has an unusual odor or color
- Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse
- Pelvic pain
It is important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, such as infection or injury, and may not be related to cervical cancer. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to consult your doctor for an evaluation.
Advanced cervical cancer can cause other symptoms as well, such as:
- Fatigue
- Back pain
- Bone fractures
- Weight loss
- Swelling in the legs
- Anemia
It is essential to note that HPV infection itself doesn’t cause any symptoms, but it could lead to cervical cancer if it persists and is not treated properly.
Diagnosis and Prevention:
Diagnosis of cervical cancer typically begins with a routine screening, such as a Pap test or an HPV test.
A Pap test is a screening test that involves taking a sample of cells from the cervix. The cells are then examined under a microscope to look for abnormal changes. The Pap test can detect precancerous or cancerous cells, allowing for early treatment.
An HPV test is a screening test that looks for the presence of high-risk types of HPV, the most common cause of cervical cancer. It is done in conjunction with a Pap test or as a standalone test.
If abnormal cells are detected during a screening, further testing may be needed to determine if cancer is present. These tests can include a colposcopy, which is a procedure that allows the doctor to examine the cervix with a magnifying lens, and a biopsy, which involves removing a small sample of tissue for examination.
Prevention of cervical cancer includes:
- HPV vaccination: HPV vaccines can protect against the high-risk types of HPV that are most likely to cause cervical cancer. The vaccine is recommended for preteen girls and boys and can be given as early as age 9.
- Regular screenings: Regular screenings, such as a Pap test or an HPV test, can detect abnormal cells before they turn into cancer, allowing for early treatment.
- Avoiding risk factors: Avoiding smoking, limiting the number of sexual partners and use of oral contraceptives can decrease the risk of cervical cancer.
- Following up on abnormal test results: If an abnormal test result is found, it is crucial to follow up with the recommended care, such as a colposcopy or biopsy.
It’s worth mentioning that cervical cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer, early detection and treatment can significantly improve the chances of survival.
Treatment of Cervical Cancer:
The treatment of cervical cancer will depend on the stage of cancer and the overall health of the patient. The main treatments for cervical cancer include:
- Surgery: Surgery is often the first treatment for cervical cancer. The type of surgery will depend on the stage of cancer. For early-stage cervical cancer, a procedure called a cone biopsy may be performed to remove the abnormal tissue. For more advanced cancer, a hysterectomy may be necessary to remove the uterus, cervix, and surrounding tissue.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells. It can be used alone or in combination with surgery.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It is typically given intravenously and can be used alone or in combination with radiation therapy.
- Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy is a new type of treatment that uses drugs to target specific proteins that allow cancer cells to grow and survive.
The treatment plan will be determined by a team of specialists that includes oncologists, gynecologic oncologists, and radiation oncologists based on the stage, size, and grade of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health and preferences.
It is also important to mention that in some cases, particularly in early-stage cervical cancer, close surveillance, and observation may be recommended, rather than immediate treatment.
The role of HPV in treatment decisions is of importance as well, as HPV status is considered in determining the best course of treatment, as well as the prognosis of the patient.
Conclusion
It is caused by the abnormal growth of cells in the cervix, which can eventually invade surrounding tissue and spread to other parts of the body. The main cause of cervical cancer is infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV).
Symptoms of cervical cancer can include vaginal bleeding, heavy menstrual periods, vaginal discharge, and pelvic pain. However, in the early stages, cervical cancer may not cause any symptoms. This is why regular screenings, such as a Pap test or an HPV test, are so important for detecting cervical cancer in its early stages.
Diagnosis of cervical cancer typically begins with a routine screening, such as a Pap test or an HPV test. Prevention of cervical cancer includes HPV vaccination, regular screenings, avoiding risk factors, and following up on abnormal test results.
The main treatments for cervical cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. The treatment plan will be determined by a team of specialists based on the stage, size, and grade of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health and preferences.
It is important to remember that cervical cancer can often be prevented with regular screenings and HPV vaccination and early detection and treatment can significantly improve the chances of survival.
