What Is It?

Cervical cancer occurs in the cervix, which is part of the uterus. It is a serious condition which can be life-threatening. Cervical cancer can develop after a woman becomes infected with certain types of HPV (types 16 and 18) and the infection does not clear on its own. Abnormal cells can develop in the lining of the cervix.

What Are Abnormal Cervical Cells?

These are cells in the lining of the cervix that have changed in appearance. The more severe the abnormalities, the greater the chance it will develop into cervical cancer later. This usually takes many years, although it can happen within a year.

Who Gets It?

About half of all females who are diagnosed with cervical cancer are between 35 and 55 years old. Many of these women could have been infected with high-risk HPV 15 to 30 years earlier without knowing it.

How Do I Know If I Have?

Most cases of cervical cancer are detected through a Pap smear. This test indicates the presence of abnormal cells. These tests should be done yearly between the ages of 21 and 30, and every three years until 65. If the test detects abnormal cell growth, more testing may be recommended.

How Is It Treated?

Cervical cancer, like other cancers, can be treated with surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, or a combination of these. The most-effective method changes from case-to-case, and can depend on the size of the cancer, if it has spread and the patient's age and overall health.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                    Rate of Incidence                                                                                      Rate of Death

*Rates are per 100,00 and are age-adjusted to the 2000 U.S. standard population¹

 

References:

1. Centers for Disease Control

 

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