9/10 cases of cervical cancer arise from an HPV infection
10% of people with HPV develop a long lasting infection that increases risk for cancer
Caused by HPV:
Squamous cell carcinoma: Most cervical cancers (up to 90%) are squamous cell carcinomas. These cancers develop from cells in the ectocervix.
Adenocarcinoma: Cervical adenocarcinomas develop in the glandular cells of the endocervix.
Not caused by HPV
Cervical Clear cell carcinoma: associated with a synthetic nonsteroidal estrogen hormone called diethylstilbestrol (DES), this was used during 1940-170
Signs and symptoms of Cervical Cancer
• Spotting or bleeding between periods
• Longer and heavier menstrual bleeding than usual
• Bleeding after intercourse, douching or an exam
• Increased vaginal discharge
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Bleeding after menopause
• Unexplained, persistent pelvic and/or back pain
Prevention
Screening via HPV test AND PAP test
If you test positive for HPV initiate antiviral treatment to clear the virus from your system as longterm infection is what increases the risk for cancer
support your immune system with nutrients and supplements
Vaccinate
