Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus connected to the vagina. It is usually caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a common sexually transmitted infection. Cervical cancer often develops slowly and may not cause symptoms in its early stages, but can be detected through tests such as the Pap test or HPV test. Symptoms of cervical cancer may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, pain during sex or unusual vaginal discharge. Treatment for cervical cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and may include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy or a combination of these treatments. Cervical cancer can be largely prevented by HPV vaccination and regular screening.

What are the types of cervical cancer?

The two main types of cervical cancer are squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. Squamous cell carcinoma: This type of cervical cancer comes from the thin, flat cells that cover the outside of the cervix. It is the most common type of cervical cancer, accounting for about 80% to 90% of all cases.

Adenocarcinoma: This type of cervical cancer develops in the glandular cells lining the cervical canal. It is less common than squamous cell carcinoma but its incidence has been increasing in recent years. In addition to these two main types, there are other rare types of cervical cancer, such as small cell carcinoma. Treatment for cervical cancer depends on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as other factors such as the woman's age and general health. Early detection through regular screening is important for effective treatment and optimal outcome.

What are the causes and risk factors for developing cervical cancer?

The main cause of cervical cancer is the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection. However, not all women with HPV will develop cervical cancer. Other factors that can increase the risk of developing cervical cancer include:

• Weakened immune system: Women with weakened immune systems due to conditions such as HIV/AIDS or certain medications are at higher risk of developing cervical cancer.
• Smoking: Women who smoke are more likely to develop cervical cancer than non-smokers.
• Family history: Women with a family history of cervical cancer or other types of cancer may be at higher risk.
• Long-term use of birth control pills: Women who have used birth control pills for five or more years may have a slightly increased risk of cervical cancer.
• Multiple sexual partners: Women who have had multiple sexual partners or who have had sex with someone who has had multiple partners are at higher risk of developing cervical cancer.
• Age: Cervical cancer most commonly affects women over 30 years of age.
• Lack of regular screening for cervical cancer: Women who do not have regular Pap tests or HPV tests are at greater risk of developing cervical cancer, as early detection is key to effective treatment.

It is important to note that the presence of one or more risk factors does not mean that a woman will develop cervical cancer, but it is important for women to be aware of their risk and take preventative measures such as regular screening and HPV vaccination.

What are the most common symptoms caused by cervical cancer?

In its early stages, cervical cancer may not cause any symptoms, which is why regular screening tests such as the Pap test or HPV test are important for early detection. However, as the cancer progresses, some common symptoms women may experience include:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding: This may include bleeding between periods, after sex or after menopause.
• Unusual vaginal discharge: It may be watery, bloody or have a bad smell.
• Pelvic pain or discomfort: This can be persistent and may be felt in the lower back or legs.
• Pain during sex: This may be due to bleeding or the growth of the tumour.
• Urinary problems: This may include pain or discomfort when urinating or the need to urinate more often.
• Swelling in the legs: This can happen when the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes.

It is important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it is important to see your doctor. Women who experience any of these symptoms or are concerned about their risk of cervical cancer should talk to their doctor about recommended screening tests and preventative measures.

How is cervical cancer diagnosed?

Cervical cancer can be diagnosed by several methods, including:

→ Pap test: This is a screening test that involves the collection of cells from the cervix that will be examined under a microscope. The Pap test can detect abnormal cells that may be precancerous or cancerous.

→ HPV test: This test detects the presence of high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) in cervical cells, which can cause abnormal changes in the cervix that can lead to cancer.

→ Colposcopy: If abnormal cells are detected by a Pap test or HPV test, a colposcopy may be performed. This procedure involves using a special magnifying device to examine the cervix more closely and taking a biopsy (small tissue sample) of any suspicious areas.

→ Conical resection: In some cases, a pineal resection may be performed to remove a larger sample of cervical tissue for examination.

→ Imaging tests: If cancer is suspected or confirmed, imaging tests such as CT or MRI may be done to determine the extent of the cancer and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.

How is cervical cancer treated?

Treatment for cervical cancer depends on the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the woman's general health and personal preferences. Treatment options may include:

Surgery: This includes the removal of cancerous tissue through procedures such as hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), radical hysterectomy (removal of the uterus and surrounding connective tissue), radical cervicalectomy (removal of the cervix and surrounding connective tissue) or lymph node removal.

Radiotherapy: It involves using high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It can be used alone or in combination with surgery or chemotherapy.

Chemotherapy: It involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be used alone or in combination with radiotherapy or surgery.

Targeted treatment: It involves the use of drugs that target specific molecules or pathways involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. The specific treatment plan will depend on the stage and extent of the cancer, as well as the woman's general health and personal preferences. 

What does surgery for cervical cancer involve?

Cervical cancer surgery can involve a few different types of surgery, depending on the stage and location of the cancer. Here are some of the most common surgical options:

→ Conical resection: In this procedure, a piece of cone-shaped tissue is removed from the cervix. This may be performed to determine the extent of the cancer or as a treatment for very early stage cervical cancer.

→ Hysterectomy: This surgery involves the complete removal of the uterus (and sometimes the cervix). This is usually done for more advanced cervical cancer or when other treatments have failed.

→ Radical hysterectomy: This is a more extensive surgery that involves removal of the uterus, cervix, upper vagina and some surrounding tissues.

→ Lymphadenectomy: In some cases, nearby lymph nodes may also need to be removed to see if the cancer has spread beyond the cervix.