What causes cervical cancer? What are the 2 types of cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that affects the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Cervical cancer is caused by a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV), which is transmitted through sexual contact.

There are many types of HPV, but only some of them can cause cervical cancer. The most common types of HPV that cause cervical cancer are HPV 16 and HPV 18, which are responsible for 70% of cervical cancers worldwide.

There are two main types of cervical cancer, based on the type of cell where the cancer starts:

Squamous cell carcinoma: This type of cervical cancer begins in the thin, flat cells that line the outer part of the cervix. It is the most common type of cervical cancer, accounting for about 80% to 90% of cases.

Adenocarcinoma: This type of cervical cancer begins in the glandular cells that produce mucus in the cervix. It is less common than squamous cell carcinoma, accounting for about 10% to 20% of cases.

In rare cases, cervical cancer can also be caused by exposure to a drug called diethylstilbestrol (DES) in the womb. This drug was given to some pregnant women between 1940 and 1971 to prevent miscarriage and early labor. Women whose mothers took DES while pregnant have an increased risk of developing a type of cervical cancer called clear-cell adenocarcinoma.

Cervical cancer can be prevented by getting vaccinated against HPV, having regular screening tests such as Pap smear and HPV DNA test, practicing safe sex, avoiding smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight. If detected early, cervical cancer can be treated successfully with surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapy.