Cervical cancer
Cervical cancer develops in the cells of the cervix - the lower part of the uterus that is connected to the vagina
In most cases, the sexually transmitted virus - human papillomavirus takes the main role in the development of cervical cancer
After transmission of the papillomavirus, the woman's immune system protects itself from the development of infection. However, in a small group of women, the virus persists for years and causes the cells of the cervix to degenerate
Cervical cancer can be avoided by timely tests and vaccination
Cervical cancer mainly develops in healthy cells that acquire a genetic change (mutation) that turns them into abnormal cells.
Healthy cells grow, multiply and die at a certain time Tumor cells grow and multiply uncontrollably, they do not die A cluster of abnormal cells forms a mass (tumor). Cancer cells invade surrounding tissues and may break away from their original site and spread to the rest of the body (metastasize).
The causes of cervical cancer are not known, but it is clear that the human papillomavirus plays a significant role in the development of cancer. Human papillomavirus is common, but most infected women do not develop cervical cancer This indicates that tumor development also depends on environmental factors and lifestyle. Two main forms of cancer:
- Squamous cell carcinoma This type of tumor develops in the thin, flat cells that line the outer lower part of the cervix that connects to the vagina. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common form of cervical cancer
- Adenocarcinoma This type of tumor develops in the columnar, glandular cells that line the cervical canal.
- Cervical cancer sometimes involves both types of cells In rare cases, cancer develops in other cells of the cervix
Cervical cancer does not show symptoms in the early stages
Symptoms of advanced cervical cancer:
- Vaginal bleeding after intercourse between menstrual cycles or after menopause
- Loose, bloody vaginal discharge that may be spotty and have an unpleasant odor
- Pelvic pain or
