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Cervical Cancer FAQs
What is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer is a malignant tumor of the cervix, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) in 99% of cases. It is highly treatable when diagnosed early.
What is the cervix?
The cervix is the lowermost part of the uterus and the entrance of the uterus from the vagina.
What is HPV?
HPV (human papillomavirus) is a common sexually transmitted virus. While most HPV infections clear up on their own, persistent infections can lead to cervical cancer.
The two most dangerous HPV strains are HPV16 and HPV18, which are responsible for most cervical cancer cases.
Who is most at risk for HPV infection?
- Adolescents and young adults aged 15–26
- Those who become sexually active before 18
- Individuals with multiple sexual partners
- Those with partners who have high-risk sexual behaviors
How common is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer is the 4th most common cancer among women worldwide.
What increases the risk of developing cervical cancer?
- HPV Infection – The leading cause of cervical cancer
- Family History – A mother or sister with cervical cancer increases risk
- Weakened Immune System – Conditions like HIV or long-term steroid use
- Genital Herpes – Increases risk
- Smoking – Doubles the risk
- Age – Most common in late teens to mid-30s, but regular screenings are needed at all ages.
- Low Socioeconomic Status – Limited access to screenings increases risk
- Long-term Use of Oral Contraceptives (OCPs) – Associated with higher-risk sexual behaviors
- Exposure to Diethylstilbestrol (DES) – A synthetic estrogen linked to cervical and vaginal cancer
How can cervical cancer be prevented?
- Limit HPV exposure: Delay first sexual activity, have fewer partners, and use condoms (though not 100% effective)
- Do not smoke
- Get vaccinated against HPV to prevent infection
- Regular screening: Pap smears and HPV tests detect pre-cancerous changes early
Who should be screened and how often?
The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends:
- Women aged 25–65 should have an HPV test every 5 years.
- Women over 65 can stop screening if they’ve had negative results for the past 15 years.
- Women with higher risk factors (e.g., family history) may need more frequent screening.
Always consult your gynecologist for personalized recommendations.
Who should get vaccinated?
- Children aged 9–12 should receive the HPV vaccine.
- Unvaccinated young adults (13–26) should get vaccinated immediately.
- Adults aged 27–45 may still receive the vaccine, but it is less effective.
No vaccine provides 100% protection against all cancer-causing HPV strains, so regular screenings are still necessary.
Where can I get screened or vaccinated?
There are screening and vaccination centers across Nigeria.