Why would someone get cervical cancer?

Written by Gong Chun
Oncology
Updated on September 30, 2024
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Why does cervical cancer occur? There are several reasons for cervical cancer: The first is infection with the human papillomavirus, also known as HPV infection, which is the fundamental cause of precancerous lesions and cervical cancer. Secondly, there are other factors; in a few cases, HPV DNA is not detected in the tumor tissue, especially among elderly patients, and it is related to early childbirth and multiple pregnancies. The third point is that cervical cancer incidence is associated with high-risk males, including those who have had penile cancer, prostate cancer, or are high-risk individuals for cervical cancer. Women who are in contact with these high-risk men are more likely to develop cervical cancer. Lastly, irregular diet and lifestyle, along with smoking and drinking, can suppress the body's immune function, potentially promoting cancer.

Other Voices

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Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How long does it take for cervical cancer to develop?

Cervical cancer generally forms beginning with an infection of human papillomavirus (HPV), and it usually takes five to ten years to develop into cervical cancer. The vast majority of cervical cancer cases are caused by contact with HPV. If this virus continues to replicate in the body, it typically progresses to cervical cancer over a period of five to ten years. Therefore, cervical cancer screening is crucial for women. If regular check-ups are performed annually during this period, it is possible to halt the progression to cervical cancer and its precursors. Cervical cancer screening generally includes routine TCT (ThinPrep Cytologic Test) and HPV testing. These two tests can preliminarily screen for cervical cancer and precancerous conditions. If any abnormalities are detected, it is essential to undergo a colposcopic biopsy at a hospital, as biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosis.

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Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Cervical polyp and cervical cancer differences

Cervical polyps are generally visible to the naked eye during a gynecological examination, and after the removal of cervical polyps, there should be no bleeding. Cervical cancer, on the other hand, is different. With cervical cancer, abnormalities can be seen on the surface of the cervix or, even if not visible to the naked eye, can generally be detected through cervical cancer screening. There is no issue with patients with cervical polyps undergoing cervical cancer screening. For patients with cervical cancer, cervical cancer screening typically includes TCT and HPV testing. If these tests show abnormalities, indicating cervical cancer or precancerous lesions, a biopsy is generally required for further diagnosis. There is a difference between the two; after a polyp is removed, there should be no further bleeding; whereas with cervical cancer, continuous bleeding, irregular bleeding, and an accompanying odor can occur.

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Written by Gong Chun
Oncology
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How to prevent cervical cancer

How to prevent cervical cancer: Firstly, it is very important to prevent infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). So, how can one prevent HPV infection? First, in choosing sexual partners, one should select a healthy male, generally a steady one, and avoid relationships with men who have penile cancer, prostate cancer, or whose ex-wife had cervical cancer, as these men are considered high-risk, and the women they come into contact with are also at increased risk of developing cervical cancer. Secondly, we should pay attention to personal hygiene. Thirdly, one should enhance their physical constitution to prevent viral infections and to maintain cleanliness. Fourthly, attention should be given to prevention of other contributing factors, such as early childbirth. Therefore, it is necessary to choose an appropriate age for childbirth. Multiple births are also related to cervical cancer, so if pregnant, one should avoid miscarriage and multiple dilation and curettage procedures. Fifthly, adhere to a healthy and reasonable diet, and avoid smoking and drinking alcohol.

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Written by Yan Chun
Oncology
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Does cervical cancer cause anemia in the early stages?

Cervical cancer is one of the common malignant tumors in gynecology, and a small number of patients with cervical cancer may experience anemia in the early stages. This is because the main clinical symptoms of early-stage cervical cancer patients are mainly vaginal bleeding or vaginal discharge. As the amount of vaginal bleeding in patients with cervical cancer is not significantly related to the stage of the cancer, some patients in the early stages of cervical cancer may have a large amount of vaginal bleeding, which can lead to mild anemia. In some cases, patients may experience severe bleeding, which can lead to anemia-induced shock. For patients with cervical cancer, in addition to vaginal bleeding, some patients may also experience an increase in vaginal secretions and vaginal discharge. Young women may also experience an extension of the menstrual cycle and an increase in menstrual volume, all of which can cause anemia in patients clinically.

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Does cervical cancer hurt?

Women with cervical cancer usually have no specific clinical symptoms in the early stages of the disease. As the tumor increases in size, some women may experience contact bleeding, which occurs after sexual intercourse. As the cancer grows and compresses the surrounding tissues, it can cause local feelings of distension and even pain. In some women, the spread of cancer cells can compress nerves in the pelvic area, also causing localized pain. However, this generally occurs in the later stages of the disease. By this advanced stage, the pain caused by the tumor cannot be alleviated by ordinary analgesics, and drugs like morphine are usually required for pain relief. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)