Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in a woman's cervix, the opening between the uterus and vagina. The frequency of cervical cancer cases varies by country, but globally, it is number three on the list of the most common cancers in women. The two primary types of cervical cancer are squamous cell carcinomas and adenocarcinomas.
Approximately 80 to 90 percent of all cervical cancer cases are classified as squamous cell carcinomas. These types of cervical cancer invade the cells in the lower part of the cervix, just above the vagina. Patients in the early stages of squamous cell carcinoma may not exhibit any symptoms of the disease at all. As the cancer progresses, however, a woman may notice pain during sexual intercourse, abnormal vaginal discharge or bleeding.
The remaining occurrences of cervical cancer are either adenocarcinomas or cases in which both types of cervical cancer are present. Adenocarcinoma affects the cells in the upper part of the cervix, where the cervix connects to the uterus. Most women with this cancer present with symptoms similar to those of advanced squamous cell carcinoma. Due to the location of adenocarcinoma, it is rare for the condition to be found before the patient begins experiencing symptoms.
Risk factors for both types of cervical cancer are similar. Women aged 45 and older are more likely to develop cervical cancer. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is found in the majority of cervical cancer patients, although HPV infection does not always lead to cancer. Other sexually transmitted diseases, or any conditions that weaken the immune system, increase the chance of cervical cancer. Women who became sexually active at a young age, who have had many sexual partners and who smoke are also more at risk.
Regular Pap smears, in which the physician removes a small amount of cervical cells for microscopic examination, are recommended for all women aged 18 and older and sexually active women of any age. If the cells appear abnormal, further testing is done to determine if the abnormalities are due to a precancerous condition or one of the types of cervical cancer. Pap tests are very effective at detecting possible cases of squamous cell carcinoma, but adenocarcinoma is more difficult to detect with a routine exam.
With early detection and treatment, survival rates for both types of cervical cancer are very good, and the patient may still be able to have children if she desires. If the cancerous area has grown or the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, the chances of recovery are reduced. More radical treatment, including hysterectomy, chemotherapy and radiation therapy, may be necessary for advanced cervical cancer. Even if treatment is successful, cervical cancer may recur. It is therefore vital that patients return to their doctors for frequent follow-up exams.